Sleep Apnea FAQs – Bullard, TX
Get the Answers You Need about Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition that affects at least 22 million adults in the U.S. The sleep disorder causes you to stop breathing frequently throughout the night due to your soft tissues in the back of the mouth or throat collapsing to block the airways. If you have recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea in Bullard, you likely have several questions. Dr. Tad Morgan has the answers you need to make the right decision for your overall health and your quality of life.
Is snoring the only symptom of sleep apnea?
Loud, chronic snoring is the most prominent symptom; however, there are several others, like morning headaches, waking choking or gasping for air, and depression. You may even wake with a sore throat or often throughout the night to urinate. If you do not receive treatment right away, the symptoms can become more severe to include sleep deprivation or cardiovascular disease.
How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
You must undergo a sleep study to receive a diagnosis. You are monitored while you sleep to gather important information, like your oxygen levels. Your sleep specialist evaluates the data to create a diagnosis and a customized treatment plan.
How is sleep apnea treated?
The most conventional treatment involves the use of a CPAP machine. A mask is worn over your mouth or nose while you sleep, which delivers a steady stream of air to keep your airways open. As an alternative, you may also benefit from an oral appliance. This is a custom-fit device that repositions your lower jaw forward to prevent your airways from collapsing.
Which treatment is best?
Your treatment plan is determined by your individual needs. An oral appliance has shown to be effective for treating mild to moderate cases of the condition, whereas, a CPAP can be used for all severities. In some instances, you may require a combination of both treatments.
Why is my mouth so dry?
Dry mouth is a common problem with sleep apnea because it causes snoring; however, the issue can also be due to the CPAP machine. This can lead to a sore throat or nasal congestion. There are several home remedies that can help to solve the problem, like using a nasal mask, wearing a chinstrap, or using a humidifier in your bedroom.
What are the risks of untreated sleep apnea?
Leaving the condition untreated can have potentially deadly consequences. The lack of proper oxygen and sleep quality increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, and sleep deprivation.
Are there certain risk factors for sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea can occur in anyone; however, there are certain factors that increase your likeliness for developing it, such as obesity, age, enlarges tonsils or adenoids, smoking, a large neck circumference, and genetics.
How can I get treatment for sleep apnea?
To breathe easier so you can sleep soundly, you need to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Bullard. Dr. Morgan has the solutions you need for sleep apnea. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.