Sleep Apnea

There are at least three types of sleep apnea disorders:

• Obstructive
• Central
• Complex

The pauses usually last from a few seconds to a few minutes and can occur several times during the sleep period. Breathing pauses are usually accompanied by snoring or choking noises. The seriousness of this disease is cause for concern among doctors. Sleep apnea can severely interfere with normal sleep patterns and becomes dangerous. With sleep apnea, you spend less time in a deep sleep and more time in a light sleep stage.

Poor sleeping habits lead to less energy and less productivity the following morning. Inadequate sleep provides a danger for sufferers who are driving on the highway or operating heavy equipment or machinery. When sleep apnea is treated, individuals sleep better, perform at a higher capacity and avoid injuries.

Dr. Alaina Perry at Great Lakes Dental Arts in Mentor, OH, offers viable solutions to people suffering from sleep apnea.

• Other signs and symptoms of sleep apnea:
• Nagging headaches
• Inability to think or concentrate
• Problems learning or remembering things
• Frequent night visits to the bathroom to urinate
• Dry mouth or/and a sore throat upon waking
• Severe tiredness or downiness

What Tools Work in Preventing or Reducing Sleep Apnea Symptoms?

CPAP machines are often used to restore normal breathing patterns during periods of sleep. These machines are large, noisy and can be a nuisance to loved ones. Instead of a CPAP machine, we recommend using a dental device. This oral appliance is to be placed in the mouth and worn much like a sports mouth protector or orthodontic device. Use of the appliance promotes an adequate supply of air by preventing the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat from collapsing during sleep. It is comfortable to wear and easy to use, especially for travelers. These oral appliances can be used alone or in conjunction with a CPAP machine.

Health problems linked to sleep apnea include:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Possible Type 2 diabetes
• Excessive weight gain
• Asthma
• Traffic accidents

Many patients have been able to reduce or eliminate these health problems by controlling their sleep apnea with one of our oral appliances. If you or a loved one struggles with sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with Dr. Perry to learn more about treatment options.