Millions of people around the U.S. have sleep apnea, and one study from 2019 estimates that nearly 1 billion adults have it worldwide. So what is this condition that affects so many people in so many different countries?
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which your breathing often stops and restarts while you’re asleep. Ultimately, these frequent pauses mean that you’re not getting enough oxygen, which can in turn lead to many other negative side effects.
Causes of Sleep Apnea
The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea, which is when your throat muscles relax to the point that they literally obstruct airflow. There’s also something called central sleep apnea, which is when the brain doesn’t signal the muscles correctly for your breathing.
There are different risk factors for each type of sleep apnea. Obesity, older age, alcohol consumption, smoking, and certain medical conditions are all likely to increase your risk of having obstructive sleep apnea. Meanwhile, risk factors for central sleep apnea include heart disorders, stroke, and use of opioid medications.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
Since you’re obviously asleep when sleep apnea is occurring, you might not notice that there’s anything off until you wake up. Common signs of sleep apnea include morning headaches, daytime fatigue, difficulty paying attention, and irritability. If you share a bed or room with someone, they can check whether you snore loudly and regularly, as that’s also one of the most common warning signs of the condition.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Sleep apnea treatment depends on the type of sleep apnea and severity of the case. At Bridge Dental Care, we provide treatment for obstructive sleep apnea with a custom-made oral appliance that helps reposition your jaw to keep your airway open. To learn more about this treatment option, contact our Chattanooga practice today!