If you’ve ever been startled awake by your partner gasping for air during the night, it’s not something to ignore. While it may seem like just heavy snoring or a bad dream, your partner’s gasping for breath during the night could be serious. This could be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA , a condition that affects millions but often goes undiagnosed.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Your Point Loma sleep apnea dentist explains that obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much during sleep. This blocks the airway. Moreover, it causes repeated breathing interruptions that can last for seconds or even minutes. Your partner might not remember waking up multiple times, but you’ve probably noticed the snoring, choking sounds, or sudden gasps for breath.
The effects of OSA go beyond poor sleep. It can lead to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and even diabetes. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment are so important.
How a San Diego OSA Dentist Can Help
You may not realize it, but a San Diego dentist’s office may be one of the best places to get help. Specifically, a dentist trained in sleep apnea treatment can offer solutions that are less invasive than traditional CPAP machines.
At Xceptional Dental in Point Loma, Dr. Janette Larsen, a leading San Diego OSA dentist, works with patients to identify and treat sleep apnea using custom oral appliances.
These appliances reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. They’re comfortable, easy to wear, and often life-changing for both the person with sleep apnea and their partner.
Why OSA Shouldn’t Wait
If your partner’s nightly gasping or snoring is affecting your sleep or causing concern, it’s time to act. Don’t brush it off as just loud snoring. The sooner your partner seeks help from a local Point Loma dentist like Dr. Larsen, the better their chances are of avoiding long-term complications.
At Xceptional Dental, your partner will be treated by a compassionate and knowledgeable team who understands the impact of OSA on families. As a trusted family dentist in San Diego, Dr. Larsen can guide you both through the diagnosis and treatment process, ensuring better sleep and improved health.
Take the First Step Against OSA Today
You don’t have to lose sleep worrying about your partner. Schedule a consultation at Xceptional Dental and see how a visit to a Point Loma dentist can make a real difference. When it comes to sleep apnea, knowledge and early action can be life-saving.