Sleep Apnea![]() If you are unsure that you are experiencing sleep apnea symptoms, then you should get in touch with Cambridgeside Dental Associates. They will be able to supply you with the best treatment options. When To Consult A DoctorConsulting a doctor will be necessary when you begin to awaken yourself from the snoring you produce. However, the good thing is that snoring will not always be a symptom for those who have sleep apnea. Obstructive Sleep ApneaObstructive Sleep Apnea is when relaxing of throat muscles occurs. The job of the muscles is too provide support to all of the oral cavity's soft tissues. As relaxing occurs a narrowing of the airway takes place while inhaling. This narrowing is what prevents you from getting enough oxygen to breathe properly. As this lack of air occurs, your brain wakes you up so that normal breathing can resume. When you are awakened, it is normally for a very brief time that is not remembered. Central Sleep ApneaCentral sleep apnea is not as commonly known and occurs when signals from your brain to your respiratory system don't make it in time. This is why there will be a brief period where you will not be breathing. Is Sleep Apnea Common?It is believed that at least 10% of American adults are affected by obstructed sleep apnea. However, it is believed that many of them are not diagnosed. It is believed that central sleep apnea also affects around the same amount of individuals as obstructed sleep apnea does. This form of sleep apnea is known to occur in more men than women. As we can see, there is a more common occurrence with OSA than there is with CSA. This means when sleep apnea is being discussed, they are likely discussing obstructed sleep apnea. Available TreatmentsThere are many treatments available for sleep apnea, so talking to your healthcare provider is a good idea. When there is no understanding of the cause, then there is no easy treatment method. When obstructed or central sleep apnea gets diagnosed, the treatment will often times become effective so that sleeping becomes enhanced and health risks are reduced. When a doctor becomes familiar with a patient's sleep apnea history, they are able to present them with benefits of treatments and the risks involved. By making changes in lifestyle such as decreasing weight, sleeping on your side, and decreasing medications can easily decrease a case of obstructed sleep apnea. Not only that, but by utilizing a CPAP machine, you can enjoy a full night's sleep. If you feel like you have been experiencing sleep apnea, then you should get ahold of Cambridgeside Dental Associates today. We will evaluate and test your sleeping pattern to determine which form of sleep apnea you have. So go ahead and us a call today at 857-588-1210. |