The Compact Guide to Sleep Apnea
February 23, 2017
Do you snore at night and struggle to stay awake during the day? If so, then you may be one of the 22 million Americans who have sleep apnea. Fortunately for patients in Duval County and the surrounding areas, Dr. Kathryn Ryan is a leading prosthodontist in Jacksonville, FL, who offers sleep apnea treatment.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
People who have sleep apnea experience disrupted sleep cycles because they are unable to maintain steady breathing patterns as they sleep. The disorder falls into two categories, each of which has its own risk factors.
- Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain does not properly signal the throat muscles to breathe. Risk factors include older age, thyroid disease, and cardiological and neurological conditions.
- Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway is blocked by the collapse of the soft tissue in the throat. Risk factors include obesity, older age, small jaw size, large neck size, and having a deviated septum.
How Might Sleep Apnea Affect Me?
Because sleep apnea inhibits breathing, you may snore loudly as you sleep. You may also experience shortness of breath during the night, resulting in frequent waking or insomnia. These fitful nights often lead to fatigued days, and you may fall asleep unintentionally as you go about your business. Untreated sleep apnea can hinder cognitive, metabolic, and cardiovascular function. In some cases, it can even cause death.
How Can My Prosthodontist Treat My Sleep Apnea?
Prosthodontists specialize in the fabrication and placement of oral prosthetics, and they often use these devices to treat obstructive sleep apnea patients. If you are a good candidate for prosthodontic treatment, then Dr. Ryan will fit you with a device designed to keep your airway open as you rest. As long as you use your device faithfully, you are likely to experience better and safer sleep. To learn more about the treatments and services Dr. Ryan offers, schedule a consultation with Parkway Prosthodontics.