Have you become worried about your partner’s sleep? Besides the potential annoyance to you, if your partner is a loud snorer it could be indication of a serious sleeping disorder known as obtrusive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can drastically limit a person’s ability to getting necessary rest, which could subsequently result in a sharp decline in his or her overall health. If you have noticed your loved one snoring loudly lately, it’s time to encourage him or her to talk to the dentist or doctor about whether sleep apnea could be the cause, and also about the potential cures!
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when a person’s passageway becomes blocked as he or she sleeps. This can happen a few times or hundreds of times in a single night, and even though it is subconscious, it can have a drastic affect on one’s quality of rest. That is why symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Daytime tiredness
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Irritability
- Frequent headaches
- Problems maintaining attention
When It’s Time to Seek Treatment
Health professionals recommend a person seek treatment anytime snoring becomes loud enough to wake oneself or others. Anyone experiencing extreme daytime drowsiness is at risk of falling asleep at work or even driving, and should also consult a doctor or dentist.
And if a person wakes up feeling short of breath or gasping for air this is also a sign that some form of sleeping disorder may be present.
The good news is that in many cases, treatment for sleep apnea is as simple as having the patient fitted with a custom night guard, similar to a mouthguard used for sporting or even during orthodontic treatment. This guard is designed to help keep the jaw in proper alignment as one sleeps, allowing the passageway to remain clear even during sleep.
About Your Spring, TX, Sleep Experts:
At Stephens and Gatewood Dentistry, located in Spring, TX, we proudly deliver modern, quality dental care in a welcoming, comfortable environment to patients and families throughout the community. We also offer customized, expert sleep solutions to help you alleviate snoring and sleep apnea symptoms. Though we are located in Spring, we also welcome patients from Houston, The Woodlands, Tomball, Cypress, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation with one of our experts, call Stephens and Gatewood Dentistry today at 281-320-2000. Se Habla Espanol!