Sleep Apnea and Snoring
Many of us know someone who snores or who may have sleep apnea.
The signs and symptoms of sleep apnea may include awaking all of a sudden and gasping for breath, never feeling fully rested after sleep, waking with a dry or sore throat, sleepiness during the day, restless sleep, morning headaches, forgetfulness, or mood changes.
The most common patients who are at risk of sleep apnea include those who are over 40 years old, are overweight, have an anatomical abnormality which limits the size of the throat’s airway, those who have a family history of sleep apnea, or those who have a nasal obstruction.
This problem may also occur with young children and with young, physically fit people.
If left untreated, sleep apnea may lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, an irregular heartbeat, a heart attack, diabetes, depression, or it may lead to the worsening of ADHD symptoms.
Treatment for sleep apnea includes not sleeping on the back, a CPAP machine, a custom oral appliance that dentists may provide, and surgery.
In Texas, a physician’s examination is required to determine a diagnosis of sleep apnea. Once diagnosed, a prescription from the doctor is needed in order to make the oral appliance.
If sleep apnea has been ruled out, a prescription is not needed.
Snoring can also be treated with a custom oral appliance that helps keep airways unobstructed during sleep.
Dr. Venincasa can help you determine if a dental approach can offer relief to snoring and sleep apnea symptoms. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment.
