Did you know an estimated 22 million Americans have sleep apnea? That’s not considering the other 80 percent of cases that have yet to be diagnosed. Did you know dentists can help treat sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is a condition causing you to snore loudly, stop breathing several times a night, and wake frequently. Left untreated it can increase the risk of serious health issues. Your Livonia, MI dentist, Dr. James Stewart wants to help Michigan sleep better. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with Dr. Stewart and learn more about sleep apnea and treatment options.
Things You Should Know
• Sleep Apnea is potentially dangerous to your health. It can lead to serious health issues including irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart attack and stroke. Sleep apnea prevents you from reaching REM sleep. As a result you may experience sleepiness during the day, irritability, and be at risk for falling asleep while driving.
• Symptoms of sleep apnea include: loud and excessive snoring; gasping caused by lapses in breathing; snorting; choking during sleep; and frequent wakefulness. This condition not only affects your quality of sleep but the quality of sleep of those around you.
• If your soft palate (the fleshy part at the top back of your mouth) is too soft or thick, it can obstruct your airway while you sleep, resulting in sleep apnea.
• People with sleep apnea are usually the last to know. It is often brought to their attention by their significant other complaining of their loud snoring.
Treatments
• Sleep Appliances: A sleep appliance is similar to a mouth guard. It is designed to position your jaw and tongue to allow the air to move freely through the airway at the back of your throat.
• CPAP Machine: A CPAP machine uses air pressure to keep your airways open while sleeping. It includes a motorized machine to produce the pressurized air, a face mask, and a tube connecting the machine to the mask.
There are three types of sleep apnea, obstructive, central, and complex, with obstructive being the most common form.
About Dr. Stewart
James R. Stewart, Jr, DDS, PC and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.
