SLEEP APNEA AND SNORING

 

Sleep Apnea

 

Sleep apnea can be broken down into two main components: central and obstructive.

• Central sleep apnea occurs when the central nervous system fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
• Obstructive sleep apnea is related to physical obstructions of the airway.

 

The most common symptoms of sleep apnea are:

• Loud snoring
• Intervals in which you stop breathing during sleep.
• Waking up with a dry mouth.
• Morning headache.
• Difficulty staying asleep.
• Excessive daytime sleepiness.
• Difficulty paying attention while awake.        
• Irritability. 

 

Traditional medical treatments have usually fallen into the following categories:

• Controlled positive air pressure (CPAP) machine, where air is applied in a cyclic method through a face mask to keep the airway open.
• Uvula surgery (laser and traditional)
• Treatment for associated medical problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and congestive heart failure.
• Weight loss.
• Exercise.
• Smoking cessation.
• Avoiding alcohol and certain medications such as sedatives. 

 

Snoring Appliances

 

Most people are relieved to learn that there are convenient, comfortable oral appliances that can help reduce snoring. In the past, the standard treatment was the CPAP (Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure) machine. However, many people find it difficult and uncomfortable to use while sleeping. They are also impractical while traveling.

Now, there are many appliances to reduce snoring that are easy to use.

 

There are multiple options to help you stop snoring. We can help you decide which oral appliance is the best option.