Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, is a potentially serious condition that affects millions of people all over the globe. Unfortunately, some of those individuals are not aware that they are suffering.
If you follow the Xceptional Dental Blog you will remember that obstructive sleep apnea is something that causes sudden cessations in breath, but it doesn’t stop there.
Dental Sleep Medicine and OSA
Dental sleep medicine dentist Dr. Janette Larsen explains in addition to waking up gasping for breath, loud snoring is another sign that you or someone you know is dealing with OSA.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Symptoms
If you are someone who has no one within earshot of you sleeping there is no possible way to know if you are waking up 30 or more times each hour. Moreover you will have no way of knowing if your snoring is so loud it wakes your dog up.
You may have OSA if you:
- Wake up with a headache and/or dry mouth
- Have been told you snore
- Have a large neck size
- Are obese
- Are menopausal
- Over the age of 50
- Have your tonsils and adenoids
- Have a family history of OSA
- Drink and smoke before bedtime
- Have a hard time staying awake
- Suffer from insomnia
If you have even one of the above symptoms it’s important to find out if you are suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.
You can get a referral for a home study sleep test or go to a sleep study center for an evaluation. Dr. Larsen and her team can also refer you to a local specialist for diagnosis.
Oral Appliance Therapy for OSA
If you are diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and don’t want to deal with a CPAP machine talk to Dr. Larsen about dental sleep medicine.
As a dental sleep medicine dentist she and her team will design a plan to help you get a better night’s sleep.
That plan could include custom made mouth guards or splints to keep your throat open while you sleep.
In addition to this type of therapy your San Diego sleep medicine dentist may also recommend meditation and other types of solutions including relaxation exercises for your sleeping disorder. Oral appliance therapy or OAT is also a great treatment for people who snore.
If you or someone you know has OSA or believes he or she does schedule an appointment. Dr. Larsen is ready to help you sleep better.
Send a direct message and schedule a consultation in San Diego today.