If you frequently wake up during the night struggling to breathe, and your partner is disturbed by your loud snoring, it may suggest potential sleep apnea. To determine if you have this condition, undergoing a home sleep apnea test is essential. This test will help identify the appropriate treatment for your situation.
WHAT IS SLEEP APNEA?
Sleep apnea occurs when the air passages between the mouth and lungs become blocked during sleep. This happens when muscles in the mouth and throat relax, causing the tongue and surrounding muscles to obstruct the airway. As a result, individuals with sleep apnea may frequently wake up and struggle to breathe while asleep. If you are interested, feel free to inquire about our Home Sleep Apnea Testing.
Why It's Important to Address Sleep Apnea
Dealing with snoring and frequent awakenings at night can be troublesome, but the consequences of sleep apnea go beyond these inconveniences. Sleep apnea can contribute to various health issues, including fatigue, memory difficulties, heart disease, stroke, obesity, depression, and more. It is crucial to treat sleep apnea to reduce the risk of these conditions. However, the first step towards receiving treatment involves confirming whether you indeed have sleep apnea or not.
Sleep apnea testing can now be done in the comfort of your own home.
Portable diagnostic devices, referred to 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, including 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
Various treatment options are available for managing both the symptoms and underlying causes of sleep apnea. Patients typically choose between a CPAP machine or an oral appliance to alleviate symptoms. While CPAP machines are effective, their use can be cumbersome. On the other hand, oral appliances, resembling bite guards for teeth grinding, offer more comfort.
Addressing the root cause of sleep apnea is crucial 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. Inquire about the possibility of home testing, which aids in diagnosis and subsequent treatment directed by your doctor.