Frequent awakenings during the night with breathing difficulties and loud snoring that bothers your partner could indicate possible sleep apnea. To determine if this condition is present, undergoing a home sleep apnea test is essential. This test will help identify the suitable treatment for your specific situation.
WHAT IS SLEEP APNEA?
Sleep apnea develops when the air passages between the mouth and lungs become obstructed during sleep. This happens when the muscles in the mouth and throat relax, causing the tongue and surrounding muscles to block the airway. As a result, individuals with sleep apnea may experience frequent awakenings and difficulty breathing while asleep. If you're curious, feel free to inquire about our Home Sleep Apnea Testing.
Why It's Important to Address Sleep Apnea
Dealing with disruptive snoring and frequent nighttime awakenings can be frustrating, but the effects of sleep apnea reach beyond these inconveniences. Sleep apnea is linked to several health problems including fatigue, memory issues, heart disease, stroke, obesity, depression, and more. Addressing sleep apnea is essential to reduce the risk of these conditions. However, the first step towards receiving treatment involves confirming whether you have sleep apnea or not.
Sleep apnea testing can now be done in the comfort of your own home.
Portable diagnostic devices, known as home sleep apnea tests, allow individuals to undergo sleep apnea assessments in the comfort of their homes. These tests collect data on various physiological aspects during sleep, such as breathing patterns, blood oxygen levels, and heart rate. By monitoring these indicators, home sleep apnea tests provide valuable insights into the presence and severity of sleep apnea.
Treatment Options
Several treatment options are available to manage both the symptoms and underlying causes of sleep apnea. Patients often choose between a CPAP machine or an oral appliance to alleviate symptoms. While CPAP machines are effective, their use can be cumbersome. In contrast, oral appliances, similar to bite guards for teeth grinding, offer more comfort.
Addressing the root cause of sleep apnea is essential for effective treatment. This often involves lifestyle adjustments such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and adopting a healthier diet.
If you suspect sleep apnea, consulting your dentist is advisable for testing. Consider asking about the possibility of home testing, which aids in diagnosis and subsequent treatment under your doctor's guidance.