Lately, you’ve found yourself feeling really tired and lethargic throughout the day. You’re wondering why, because you do your best to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night but never feel fully refreshed. Is there anything that can be done? Your local dentist says you may be suffering from sleep apnea in Coral Springs, but there are remedies. As you continue reading, you’ll learn more about the symptoms and what can be done to help you get the rest you desperately need.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition where you go through cycles of partially awakening throughout the night due to an obstruction to your breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – the most common type – causes an emergency distress signal to be sent from your brain down through your nervous system that wakes you up so that you can breathe. If this happens over and over throughout the night, you’re left feeling exhausted the next day.
Other Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Along with waking constantly throughout the night and feeling restless during the day, here are some other symptoms of sleep apnea to be on the lookout for:
- Snoring – Have you been told that you snore excessively and loudly while sleeping? If so, this could be a warning sign of sleep apnea.
- Morning Headaches – If you’re enduring headaches in the morning, it could be because of the loss of oxygen to your brain at night due to your breathing obstruction.
- Depression or Irritability – If you’ve been deprived of sleep, you may also suffer from bouts of depression because your body’s natural rhythm has been disrupted.
How Sleep Apnea Can be Treated
Thankfully, there are ways to recover from sleep apnea and get the rest that you need.
Here are two options your dentist has for you:
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Machine – One of the most common forms of treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP machine, which is comprised of a mask with an attached tube that runs to a machine that supplies constant oxygen throughout the night.
- Removable Device – For some, the CPAP machine is too cumbersome and bulky. Thus, your dentist in Coral Springs also offers a removable oral device that helps to keep your airway open, preventing disruptions in your breathing. Another attractive feature is that it’s small and portable, making it easier to travel with.
If you find yourself suffering from any of the above symptoms, then don’t hesitate to reach out to your local dentist to be tested for sleep apnea. With his help, you’ll be able to once again enjoy the full benefits of a good night’s rest!
About the Author
Dr. Walter K. Kulick earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He has since gone on to provide excellent care for his patients and serve as a guide for emerging dentists as a clinical instructor at The University of Maryland College of Dentistry. Dr. Kulick helps patients sleep better at Coral Springs Dentistry and can be reached for more information through his website.