If you find yourself waking up with tension or headaches, it may be a sign that you have a problem with snoring or sleep apnea. Getting enough rest at night is important, but the quality of this is just as important. Snoring and blocked airways can cause you to wake up periodically throughout the evening, oftentimes without you being aware. This may be the cause of your frequent pain and other symptoms. Dr. Stewart in Livonia, MI, can assess your symptoms and find a helpful solution.
The Cause Of Your Morning Headaches
Tension may be caused by stress, dehydration, sickness, and snoring. If you have reduced your stress and eliminated other factors but the headaches persist, it may be due to snoring. When your airways are blocked while you rest, your carbon dioxide and oxygen levels become imbalanced. If you are aware that you snore but try to ignore it or use at-home remedies, these headaches may continue. In addition to this tension, snoring can also cause daytime fatigue, irritability, teeth grinding, and more.
Do I Have Sleep Apnea
If you snore loudly and frequently, you may have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This occurs when you have intervals of not breathing while you rest. One of the most common indicators of this is intense snoring, but you may also notice having poor-quality rest, mood changes, or having a dry mouth when you wake up. If you suspect that you may have sleep apnea, you can take our assessment to evaluate your symptoms. Then, schedule an appointment with Dr. Stewart as soon as possible. Untreated OSA can cause severe problems to develop, so it is crucial to have this diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
Seeking Treatment For Your Disorder
During your consultation, your dentist may go over your symptoms and health history with you. This can help determine your condition. Not all patients who snore have sleep apnea, and your headaches may be caused by other problems like TMJ or bruxism. Once the diagnosis has been made, a treatment plan can be created. There are several options when it comes to treating OSA. Some patients may use a CPAP machine to keep their airways open. While this is an effective treatment, the machine is bulky and requires you to wear a mask, which can be uncomfortable.
As an alternative, an oral appliance may be a more comfortable solution. This retainer-like device is worn as you sleep and keeps your airways open. It can help reduce snoring and alleviate pressure from TMJ if this is a concern. The appliance will be created to fit your smile and address your unique needs.
Get Diagnosed For Sleep Apnea Today
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Stewart in Livonia, MI, call us at 734-425-4400. We can help discover the reason for your headaches and other symptoms and find a solution for you.