One of the most frequent sleep disorders is a condition known as “sleep apnea” – when an individual’s breathing (breathing stops ten or more seconds) is interrupted during sleep. Considered a serious sleep disorder, when sleep apnea is left untreated, individuals will stop breathing repeatedly throughout the time they are sleep. This can happen dozens or even hundreds of times. Interrupted breathing during sleep means that a person’s brain and the rest of his or her body isn’t getting enough oxygen.
The Two Types of Sleep Apnea:
Obstructive apnea, also known as OSA is the most common form of sleep apnea. OSA is caused by blockages in the airway. This usually happens when an individuals soft tissue in the back of their throat collapses while they’re sleeping.
Central apnea is not caused by a blocked airway. This type of apnea occurs when the brain fails to send a signal to the muscle to breathe, due to an instability in an individual’s respiratory control center.
Risk Factors Include:
- Being a male
- Obesity
- Nasal obstructions(deviated septum, allergies, or sinus issues)
- Being 40-years old or older
- Large necks (17 inches or more in men; 16 inches or more in women)
- Gastroesophageal reflux (also known as GERD)
- Large tonsils, large tongue, or small jaw bone
- A family history of sleep apnea
The Effects of Sleep Apnea
When sleep apnea is left untreated, it can cause a wide variety of health issues. Patients with untreated sleep apnea can experience high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, depression, headaches, and much more. Apnea can also be responsible for a decline in performance during daily activities at work or school. Fortunately there are plenty of non-surgical options through OMSH that can alleviate sleep apnea and help immediately.
Innovative treatments for Sleep Apnea
Patients can opt to have dental devices that can prevent any airway obstructions by positioning their lower jaw forward. This helps to move the tongue forward and eliminates any obstructions in the back of the throat. Not only will this help to increase the quality of a patient’s life, but it will improve his or her health.
CPAP Machines Are Gaining Popularity
CPAP treatments involve a machine and a mask. The mask fits over the patient’s nose and mouth, and the strap will keep it in place. A tube will connect to the mask and to the machine’s motor. The motor is designed to blow air into the tube. Patients across the globe are experiencing a major increase in the quality of their lives and health with this machine. Not only are they able to breathe at night, but they’re also able to function better throughout their day.
Get the Help You Need – When You Need It
If you or a loved one  is suffering from apnea, you need to seek treatment immediately. This disorder can cause a host of health issues that no one wants to deal with. Whether you choose to correct the issue with a dental device or a CPAP machine, you’re sure to experience immediate changes once you’ve started treatment. Don’t delay in getting the treatment you need, as it can pose long-term issues.
Get started with your sleep apnea treatment today with the help of our specialists at OMSH. Contact us for a consultation today!