You know your oral surgeon is ever-ready to assist you in maintaining good oral health and spectacular smiles. Were you aware though, that he also has the expertise to help you get relief from the effects of sleep apnea?
Consider 5 FAQs about sleep apnea, and the role your oral surgeon plays in treating it.
Question #1: What is sleep apnea?
Answer: The word apnea literally means “ without breath.” Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening sleeping disorder, in which breathing is briefly and repeatedly interrupted during sleep, most commonly caused by an obstruction of the airway passage. These breathing pauses last a few seconds, and results in an inadequate intake of oxygen. This leads to the frequent choking, gasping, and loud snoring associated with sleep apnea.
Question #2: How common is sleep apnea?
Answer: It is more prevalent than most people think, and the number of cases is increasing. Reports reveal that sleep apnea affects more than 18 million people in the U.S.A alone. That’s a surprising 1 out of every 15 Americans! Many having the condition have gone undiagnosed. Sleep apnea is more common among men than women, particularly African-American and Hispanic men. A major factor is also the rise in weight gain, and cases of obesity in the United States.
Question #3: What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Answer: Some symptoms include waking up gasping for air, chronic snoring, morning headaches and dry mouth, irritability, daytime fatigue, reduced libido, depression, slow reaction time, along with difficulty concentrating and remembering things.
These side-effects are highlighted in new behind-the-scenes details that emerged about Rick Perry’s presidential campaign in late 2011, one that had a promising start, but faded with a number of surprising gaffes and misstatements. Reports reveal that Perry discovered he was suffering from sleep apnea during his White House bid, a disorder that may have perhaps gone undetected for years.
Question #4: What makes sleep apnea dangerous?
Answer: Sleep apnea can lead to fragmented sleep and lower than normal blood oxygen levels. Left untreated, sleep apnea can have serious and life-shortening consequences including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and mood disorders.
Question #5: Can my oral surgeon help me treat my sleep apnea?
Answer: Yes. Utilizing specialized training and a custom-made dental appliance, your oral surgeon is able to treat mild to severe obstructive sleep apnea. After reviewing your specific case, Dr. Wilson will use the correct treatment options to resolve the obstruction and promote unimpeded breathing while you sleep.
Contact us today by calling The Maxillofacial Surgery Center at (480) 279-5949 to learn more about our professional services for sleep apnea, Phoenix expert Dr. Wilson will show you how to start reaping the benefits of a good night’s sleep right away.
Leave a comment: What do you do when are your significant other starts snoring? Do you cover your ears, wake them up, move to the couch, or something more creative?