Dental Sleep Medicine
Sleep apnea is a condition that affects how you breathe when sleeping. During sleep, normal breathing can be interrupted for 10 seconds or more hundreds of times during a single night. Untreated sleep apnea prevents you from getting enough deep, restorative sleep. Without enough deep sleep you may be sleepy, lack mental sharpness and be less productive. Long term health effects can be serious, including weight gain, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.
Signs of Sleep Apnea• |
Driving drowsy
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Waking up often at night (nocturia)
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Waking up tired
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Men—neck circumference over 17 inches
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Women—neck circumference over 16 inches
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Loud, chronic snoring
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Insomnia
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Breathing pauses for long periods
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Waking up often at night
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Forgetfulness, irritability, depression |
Home Treatments for Light Sleep Apnea• |
Avoid sleeping on your back, because your tongue is more likely to block your airway
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Elevate your head using extra pillows or a body wedge
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Open your nasal passage via breathing strips, saline nasal flush, or a nasal dilator
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Lose weight
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Exercise |
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Treatments for Moderate to Severe Sleep Apnea• |
Talk to a doctor trained in sleep apnea
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Use supplemental oxygen while sleeping
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Use a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure) machine |
Oral appliances made by Dr. Smith's office to help keep your airway open
If you think you may have sleep apnea, please give us a call at [[[360-629-3133]]]. We can help identify the severity of the sleep apnea you are experiencing. We can discuss the best treatment options for your unique situation and refer you for diagnosis.
Sleep Apnea Hurts the Heart
Click here to view an insightful infographic explaining how Sleep Apnea can negatively effect your heart health.
Please reference the link below to explore our interactive Patient Education https://sleeptest.com/patient-education
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