Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can significantly impact your quality of life and overall health. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize they have sleep apnea because the symptoms often occur during sleep. Recognizing the signs and symptoms is the first step to getting the help you need. At Meadows Center for Sleep Health in Longmeadow, MA, our team can screen for sleep apnea and work with you to find the most effective treatment options.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea has a variety of symptoms, some of which are easy to spot while others may be more subtle. The most noticeable sign of sleep apnea is loud, persistent snoring. This type of snoring is often accompanied by pauses in breathing, followed by gasping or choking sounds as normal breathing resumes. If a family member or bed partner notices these symptoms, seeking help is essential, as you might not realize it’s happening.
Daytime fatigue and sleepiness are other common indicators of sleep apnea. If you frequently feel tired, even after a full night’s sleep, or find yourself dozing off during the day, sleep apnea might be the cause. Poor sleep can lead to difficulty concentrating, memory problems, irritability, and a lack of energy throughout the day.
Morning headaches are another symptom associated with sleep apnea. Waking up with a headache, dry mouth, or sore throat can indicate disrupted breathing patterns during the night. Additionally, sleep apnea can cause mood changes, including anxiety or depression, due to the ongoing strain on your body and mind from lack of restful sleep.
How a Dentist Can Screen for Sleep Apnea
You might be surprised to learn that dentists can play a crucial role in identifying and managing sleep apnea. Dr. Evans and Dr. Ziemba are trained to look for the oral signs of sleep apnea during routine dental exams. One indicator of sleep apnea is teeth grinding, or bruxism, which can wear down your teeth. This often happens because the body tries to open the airway during sleep, causing the jaw to move excessively.
Dentists can also observe the structure of your mouth, throat, and airway for signs of sleep apnea. Factors like a small jaw, large tonsils, or an enlarged tongue can increase the likelihood of airway obstruction during sleep. If these risk factors are present, we may recommend a sleep study to get an accurate diagnosis. A sleep study, also known as a polysomnogram, is a non-invasive test that monitors your sleep patterns, breathing, and oxygen levels. It can confirm whether sleep apnea is affecting your sleep quality.
Benefits of Early Detection and Treatment
The sooner sleep apnea is diagnosed, the sooner you can start treatment to improve your health and well-being. Dentists often collaborate with sleep specialists to ensure you receive the most accurate diagnosis and the best treatment plan. If sleep apnea is detected, our office in Longmeadow, MA, offers oral appliance therapy, a comfortable and effective treatment option. These custom-made devices are designed to keep the airway open while you sleep, reducing snoring and preventing interruptions in breathing.
Treating sleep apnea can improve your quality of sleep, leading to higher energy levels, better mood, and reduced risk of serious health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Proper treatment also enhances cognitive function, making it easier to concentrate and stay alert throughout the day.
How Can We Help?
At Meadows Center for Sleep Health, our experienced team is dedicated to helping patients in Longmeadow, MA, and the surrounding areas recognize the signs of sleep apnea and get the care they need. During your visit, we’ll discuss any symptoms you may be experiencing, review your medical history, and conduct a thorough examination to identify potential indicators of sleep apnea.
If we suspect sleep apnea, we can guide you through the following steps, including arranging a sleep study and discussing available treatment options. We’re committed to working with you to find a solution that improves your sleep and overall health.
Schedule a Sleep Apnea Consultation
If you or a loved one exhibits sleep apnea symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in your health and quality of life. Contact the team at the Meadows Center for Sleep Health in Longmeadow, MA, today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve better, more restful sleep.