Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by breathing interruptions or pauses during sleep caused by the partial or complete blockage of the upper airway. These pauses in breathing, known as apneas, can last for a few seconds or longer and occur multiple times throughout the night.
Sleep apnea can significantly disrupt the sleep cycle, causing fragmented and poor-quality sleep. These breathing interruptions can lead to various symptoms including excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, morning headaches, irritability, difficulty concentrating and decreased energy levels.
If left untreated, sleep apnea can have serious health consequences including an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other medical conditions. That is why seeking appropriate treatment with our dentists Dr. Gary Herskovits, Dr. Amy Herskovits, and Dr. Adam Herskovits at Brooklyn Smile, is crucial. Our sleep apnea treatment solutions aim to alleviate symptoms, improve breathing and promote better sleep quality. The proper treatment will depend on the type and severity of the sleep apnea diagnosed from a sleep study.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
- Loud snoring
- Waking up with a sore throat or headache in the morning
- Feeling unrested after a full night of sleep
- Daytime fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating during the day
- Restless sleeping patterns
- Dry mouth
- Irritability
- Mood swings or depression
- High blood pressure
Treatment for Sleep Apnea
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy
CPAP therapy is the most common and effective treatment for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask over the nose or both the nose and mouth during sleep. The mask is connected to a machine that delivers a continuous flow of air pressure, keeping the airway open and preventing apneas.
CPAP therapy helps ensure regular breathing throughout the night and reduces symptoms such as snoring, daytime sleepiness and fatigue.
Oral Appliances
Oral appliances are custom-made devices, similar to mouth guards or retainers, that are worn during sleep. These devices work by repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open and prevent obstructions.
Oral appliances are generally recommended for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy. They are comfortable, portable, and an effective alternative to CPAP.
Lifestyle Modifications
Certain lifestyle changes can help manage sleep apnea. These may include weight loss, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, establishing a regular sleep schedule and sleeping on your side.
Surgery
Surgical intervention may be considered in certain cases, particularly when other treatment options have not been successful or in the presence of anatomical abnormalities contributing to sleep apnea. Surgical procedures may involve removing excess tissue from the throat, repositioning the jaw or enlarging the airway to facilitate better airflow during sleep.
Remember, proper management of sleep apnea can lead to improved sleep quality, enhanced well-being and reduced health risks. Visit Brooklyn Smile at 9412 4th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11209, or call (718) 745-3456 to determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on your specific diagnosis, medical history and individual needs.
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