When you encounter one or more symptoms of sleep apnea, you can take a sleep assessment on our website. If one or more questions match your experiences, you can visit our office for a diagnosis and to discuss treatment options. But what are the common symptoms of this sleep disorder?
What Causes OSA?
Sleep apnea develops when the soft tissues in the back of our mouths and in our throats become too relaxed and collapse as we sleep. The collapse blocks airflow, causing us to stop breathing until the brain registers a sudden lack of oxygen and wakes us up. Despite having little to memory of these waking episodes, they can happen hundreds of times per night, dozens of times per hour.
Sleep Apnea Symptoms
What are the warning signs of this disorder? Well, you may notice you consistently feel exhausted during the day, even if you assume you slept for several uninterrupted hours the night before. You may also suffer from chronic snoring or episodes of waking up suddenly choking or gasping for air. You may also experience moodiness and difficult concentrating, as well as dry mouth when waking up. If one or more of these potential warning signs seems familiar, then please contact our office to undergo a diagnosis.
How Do You Treat OSA?
We may recommend one of two treatments, or possibly a combination of both. A CPAP machine pumps air through a hose to a mask over the nose and mouth, preventing cessation of breathing. An oral appliance is a nightguard worn during sleep that moves the jaw forward, preventing collapse of soft tissues. If you have any questions about our treatments or how to recognize the symptoms of sleep apnea, then please contact our office today.
Do You Recognize These Symptoms?
At James Stewart, DDS, our team can identify and offer treatment for sleep apnea. Dr. Stewart and our compassionate staff serve patients of all ages from Livonia, MI, as well as Farmington Hills, Farmington, Plymouth, Northville, Novi, Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, Garden City, Westland, Redford, and the surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.
