Obstructive sleep apnea can be a serious sleep condition if left untreated. With an estimated 5.4 million Canadians having been diagnosed or at high risk of developing sleep apnea, knowing the signs can help restore your energy and give you a good night’s sleep.
Is Snoring The Same As Sleep Apnea?
Not necessarily. Though those with sleep apnea may snore, snoring alone does not mean you have sleep apnea. The distinction between sleep apnea and snoring is that sleep apnea is categorized as the complete blockage of airways, whereas snoring only partially blocks the airways.
This distinction is important because your brain and body can still receive oxygen when snoring. With sleep apnea, due to the wholly blocked airways, your body is jolted awake in an attempt to breathe correctly. You may not even notice these periods of wakefulness if you have sleep apnea, but their effects can be felt.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
Unfortunately, many people with sleep apnea don’t know they have it. This is because those momentary periods of wakefulness can last just microseconds, successfully allowing you to breathe while disrupting your sleep.
You may have sleep apnea if you experience extensive tiredness, despite sleeping an adequate amount of time. Other signs can be a sore throat, headache, or dry mouth upon waking.
If you’re experiencing lethargy, tiredness, trouble concentrating, or intense, persistent drowsiness, speak to your doctor about sleep apnea.
How the Dentist Can Treat Sleep Apnea
Despite how severe sleep apnea can be, there are solutions. Visiting your dentist can allow you to determine if you have sleep apnea and learn how to treat it.
One form of treatment is the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. The CPAP machine provides a person with a consistent supply of air, maintaining open airways throughout the night. You must wear a mask attached to the CPAP machine through a tube all night.
Another possible treatment with Dr. Slepchik is wearing an oral appliance that manipulates the jaw to encourage the airways to be open.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in downtown Montreal
If you’ve been experiencing extreme fatigue, don’t delay. Speak to your dentist to find out if you have sleep apnea and look for solutions to help you. If you have the condition, you must consult a professional.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lenny Slepchik at his downtown office. Dedicated to providing you with exceptional care, he and his team are here for you. Call the office today at 514-875-7971 or send an email at reception@smilesbydrslepchik.com.