Trouble during overnight rest is a common struggle for many Americans. One common sleep disorder occurs when the structures of the throat fully relax when we are deeply unconscious. In these times, your own body obstructs your airway and prevents you from breathing naturally. This condition is referred to as chronic obstructive sleep apnea and it can really cause some discomfort for those around you.
While you may think that you simply have trouble snoring, this disorder can lead to serious lasting health troubles. Some of these are even life-threatening! Apnea patients experience more instances of high blood pressure and in turn, see an increase in the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke. There is a convenient non-surgical approach available from Dr. James Stewart, DDS, at Dental Sleep Medicine in Livonia, MI. A simple night guard is effective for some patients to reopen their airway by slightly repositioning the jaw forward. For others, a more suitable solution comes in the form of a sleep appliance that can help you to ensure constant oxygen overnight. Relieve yourself of this long-term risk and experience a full night of rest for the first time in a long time!
What Is Chronic Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea refers to pauses in breath overnight. The majority of sufferers of this condition experience this as a result of our throats relaxing while we fall into our deepest form of slumber known as REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. When the nerve that allows our capability in swallowing relaxes as well, the airway can become blocked.
During these periods, the brain is not receiving the appropriate level of oxygen. Since this occurs while unconscious, it can also be tricky to self-diagnose. For this reason, a loved one often suggests that the patient seek treatment. Take their words to heart and speak with a qualified professional today.
How Can Night Guards Help Continuous Breath?
A low-effort way of reducing sleep apnea is through the use of a mouthguard that you wear overnight. This minimally adjusts the jaw so that the throat remains free from obstruction. Avoid potential surgery and rest deeply with this method of protection for the airway.
Other Options For Apnea Treatment
For some patients, different solutions are necessary to ensure enough oxygen reception while unconscious. Speak with your health care provider about the use of electronic sleep appliances and how they can help you. The most well-known of these is the CPAP machine, which can be helpful in more severe cases of apnea. This machine is effective at utilizing air pressure to regulate breath. There are smaller devices that may help you to minimize the obtrusiveness and help you rest calmly, as well.
Rest Easier Through The Night In Livonia, MI
Take your sleep seriously and call Dr. James Stewart, DDS at (734) 425-4400 in Livonia, MI. We can work with you to find a solution that helps you to breathe freely throughout the night!
