Snoring is an everyday part of life, right? Actually, you may be surprised to learn it is a sign that you may have some serious underlying problems. Many people have a misunderstanding of snoring simply because it is so prevalent. Unfortunately, this prevalence often results in patients choosing to disregard their symptoms and live with a condition that may cause them serious harm or even death. That condition is sleep apnea.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening condition that makes it difficult for your body to receive the oxygen it needs to properly function. The most prevalent kind of apnea occurs when the airway is blocked during sleep. This occurs when the tissues of the throat and mouth relax while you are asleep. You stop breathing because your airway is blocked, and your body wakes up to clear the blockage so you can return to sleep. This can happen hundreds of times a night.
Do I Have Sleep Apnea?
If you snore regularly, the first question you should ask is if sleep apnea may be a problem for you. Evaluate your symptoms to determine if you should talk to a dentist about treatment. Patients with sleep apnea usually report the following symptoms:
Do I Need Immediate Treatment?
Although the condition may be common, that does not make it any less dangerous. If you have sleep apnea, you should seek treatment immediately. The condition can place great strain on your heart and other vital organs, lead to increased blood pressure, and put you at greater risk of heart failure and stroke. Your quality of life due to constant fatigue may also be affected, as well as your ability to properly perform in your work and personal life.
If you believe you may be suffering from sleep apnea, call and schedule an appointment with Dr. Andres Herrera at True Bite Oral Surgery and Implant Center. Receiving treatment may just change your life.