If you struggle with your sleep, you are certainly not alone, as sleep disorders are highly prevalent in this country. Chronic obstructive sleep apnea is one of these conditions, and this might mask as problem snoring. In actuality, your throat is losing definition as you sleep, causing you to block your own airway overnight. When loved ones bring up their concerns about your snoring, speak with a trusted oral health provider about whether it could actually be obstructive sleep apnea.
With Dr. James Stewart, DDS, at Dental Sleep Medicine in Livonia, MI, you have a knowledgeable source of solutions for your condition. For some, the use of an oral appliance is enough to clear the airway and keep you breathing while you sleep. This method gently repositions your jaw forward, preventing your throat tissue from contact. Speak with our team to see if chronic obstructive sleep apnea is holding you back, and work with us to find a solution!
What Is Chronic Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
One of the most prevalent sleep disorders in the United States, chronic obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which your throat becomes a little too relaxed while you sleep. If the nerve that gives you the ability to swallow loses its control over your throat due to temporary incapacitation, you can experience pauses in breath when the tissue of your throat collapses on itself. Sometimes, these instances can even last longer than a minute!
A blocked airway during sleep prevents your body from receiving adequate airflow. This situation can cause serious negative health effects for your circulatory system, as both your heart and your brain require a consistent source of oxygen. Apnea patients experience higher rates of hypertension (high blood pressure) and lower blood oxygenation as a result of their condition. If you think that you might have chronic obstructive sleep apnea, speak with a provider with a knowledge of sleep science.
Could A Non-Surgical Approach Be Your Solution?
For the treatment and management of chronic obstructive sleep apnea, there may be a simple appliance-based option to restore consistent breathing overnight. This approach gently shifts the position of your jaw while you sleep, and it is often enough to prevent your throat tissue from contact. With the use of a slim appliance that you wear during your nightly rest, you have the opportunity to address your sleep disorder. Talk with a provider about whether this approach is right for you!
Working Toward A More Restful Sleep In Livonia, MI
If you have questions about chronic obstructive sleep apnea, reach out to our team! Speak with Dr. James Stewart, DDS at (734)425-4400 in Livonia, MI about your symptoms and schedule an appointment for an examination and consultation.
