Do you ever wake yourself up snoring? Do you feel more tired in the morning than when you went to bed? Do you become excessively sleepy while at work or driving? According to estimates, about 18 million Americans suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. You may be one of them, and recognizing the symptoms can lead you to much needed treatment. So, how much do you know about sleep apnea? Take our quiz to find out.
True or False?
True or False: Obstructive sleep apnea is not serious.
True or False: OSA is only one type of sleep apnea.
True or False: OSA is so dangerous because it is asymptomatic (it has no symptoms).
True or False: Fortunately, OSA can be treated.
Answers:
False: Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, can be dangerous. It gets its name because your breathing becomes obstructed while you are sleeping when the tissues of your throat and soft palate relax. Apnea means “without breath.” However, the seriousness of it varies, depending upon how many and how long these obstructions take place.
True: There are three different types of sleep apnea: central, complex, and obstructive, with obstructive sleep apnea being the most common.
False: There are several symptoms associated with sleep apnea, but they can be easily overlooked. Symptoms include: excessive, loud snoring; waking frequently while choking or gasping for air; morning headaches; feeling sleepy and tired during the day; dry mouth; and reduced libido.
True: While OSA can cause other health problems including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, the good news is that it is treatable. While there is the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine that many doctors prescribe, it can be loud and uncomfortable and many people purchase them then don’t use them. Here at Houston Sleep Solutions, Dr. Stephens prefers a smaller, more comfortable option. The SomnoDent® sleep appliance is similar to a nighttime mouth guard but is designed to keep a patient’s airway clear by positioning the lower jaw in a more comfortable, slightly forward position. It is custom fit for optimal comfort and can help relieve the symptoms of OSA.
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!
