Is Your Snoring Trying to Tell You Something?
If you’re one of the millions of people who snore regularly, it might seem like just a harmless habit. However, according to 4 Seasons sleep, persistent snoring could be your body’s way of signaling that something more serious is going on. You might be dealing with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a sleep disorder that can have serious health consequences if left untreated.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in your throat relax too much during sleep, causing a temporary blockage of the airway. This leads to breathing pauses that can last for several seconds or even minutes. While this happens, you may gasp or choke for air, and this can significantly disturb your sleep.
Sleep apnea dentist Dr. Todd Schroeder explains that gasping and choking while sleeping are hallmark signs of OSA. If you’re waking up feeling tired, groggy, or irritable even after a full night’s rest, it could be due to frequent interruptions in your breathing.
Why Sleep Apnea is Dangerous
Obstructive sleep apnea is not something to take lightly. In fact, if left untreated, it can lead to serious health risks, including:
- Heart disease: OSA has been linked to high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes.
- Diabetes: Disrupted sleep can interfere with insulin regulation and contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.
- Memory and concentration issues: Chronic sleep deprivation from OSA can negatively affect cognitive function, making it difficult to focus.
- Decreased quality of life: Fatigue and daytime drowsiness from OSA can impair your ability to function normally during the day, affecting your work, relationships, and overall well-being.
How Your Dentist Can Help Treat OSA
You might be surprised to learn that your dentist plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. Dr. Todd Schroeder, a sleep apnea dentist at 4 Seasons Sleep in Milton-Freewater, has extensive experience helping patients manage their OSA through dental interventions.
Dr. Schroeder is specially trained to provide oral appliance therapy. These custom-made devices reposition your jaw and tongue to keep your airway open while you sleep, reducing or eliminating the snoring and breathing pauses associated with sleep apnea.
The Importance of Timely Treatment
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s important to seek treatment right away. OSA is life-threatening if not treated and can cause long-term damage to your body.
By consulting with 4 Seasons Sleep in Milton-Freewater, you can take control of your health and sleep more soundly.
Don’t ignore the signs your body is giving you. Whether it’s excessive snoring, choking, or gasping during the night, it might be time to visit Dr. Todd Schroeder. Schedule a dental sleep medicine consultation today.