Untreated sleep apnea can lead to dangerous daytime sleepiness, not to mention high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. Although there is an effective treatment called continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), nearly half of patients find the CPAP mask uncomfortable. Adherence is equally high in patients treated with dental devices placed at bedtime, but the…
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What are the Most Common Causes of Sleep Apnea?
If you have sleep apnea, you will often stop breathing during sleep. The two main forms of the disease are obstructive sleep apnea (due to physical airway obstruction) and central sleep apnea (due to loss of signal in the brain). Understanding the risk factors of the condition can also help. Here are some common causes…
Some Statistics on Sleep Apnea
General sleep statistics It’s a great idea to be immersed in a comfortable and warm bed every night, in a way that weighs you down all night and allows you to relax and unwind every morning. But how many people experience it every night? Dr. Montz, Dr. Maher, or Dr. Dunwody at Houston Sleep Solutions…
How Do Sleep Apnea Mouthpieces Work?
Most mouthpieces for sleep apnea work by moving the jaw forward. These sleep apnea protectors, also called jaw apnea (JAD) or mandibular advance device (MAD), increase the size of the upper respiratory tract, thereby reducing the air resistance that leads to sleep apnea and snoring. Some sleep apnea mouthpieces allow the user to adjust the…
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the most common types of sleep apnea and affects almost 2% of women and 4% of men worldwide. However, most people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea do not get an accurate diagnosis of the disease and may not find the right treatment in the end. Dr.…
Dental Alternatives to CPAP Sleep Apnea Treatment
If you have mild to moderate OSA and cannot tolerate or are not helped by CPAP therapy, an oral device may be an effective treatment option. Dr. Montz, Dr. Maher, or Dr. Dunwody at Houston Sleep Solutions South will be able to help you determine if sleep apnea treatment is right for you. These devices,…
Sleep Apnea, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Risks
Numerous studies have shown an association between sleep apnea and problems such as type 2 diabetes, stroke, heart attacks, and even short life expectancy. Why this connection? First, obesity is common in patients with sleep apnea and obesity increases the risk of diabetes, stroke, and heart attack. In most cases, obesity is the main cause…
The Statistics of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a disease that affects breathing during sleep. The word apnea comes from the Greek word for “short breath”. Sleep apnea is a chronic health problem, and as such is a progressive condition, which means it is likely to get worse. If you or someone close to you suffers from sleep apnea, call…
Sleep Apnea affects on Men vs Women
Sleep apnea is a common disease and can be experienced by anyone. But it is more common in men than in women. If you or someone close to you suffers from sleep apnea, call Dr. Montz, Dr. Maher, or Dr. Dunwody at Houston Sleep Solutions South. The most common type of condition is obstructive sleep…
What Are Common Sleep Apnea Risks?
Snoring, periods of respiratory arrest, insomnia, and hypersomnia are common symptoms and side effects of sleep apnea. Over time, these symptoms can lead to serious problems with your overall health, especially if sleep apnea is not treated. Below are some of the most common risks of sleep apnea and its side effects. Speak to Dr.…