It’s midday, the sun is beaming, and your busy day is well under way. Still, you’re struggling to keep your eyes open. Being that this isn’t the first time this has happened, you’re wondering why you keep having bouts of fatigue and lethargy. Your local dentist says you may need sleep apnea treatment in Dublin, and as you read on, he’ll explain what this condition is. Most importantly, though, you’ll learn what can be done to restore you to normal.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes temporary interruptions of your breathing while sleeping, forcing you to partially awaken throughout the night. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – the most common type – causes an emergency distress signal to be sent from your brain down through your nervous system that wakes you up, so that you can breathe. If this happens over and over throughout the night, you’re left feeling exhausted the next day.
Other Signs of Sleep Apnea
Interruptions to your sleep cycle and feeling lethargic throughout the day are not the only symptoms of sleep apnea.
The following are some other signs that you may be suffering from this condition:
- Snoring – If you’re a loud snorer, it’s not a definite that you have sleep apnea, but it is one of the symptoms that people who suffer from this condition display.
- Morning Headaches – One of the many detriments of sleep apnea is that it limits oxygen to the brain while you sleep. Thus, if you find yourself dealing with splitting headaches in the morning, this may be the reason.
- Depression or Irritability – Your body has a natural ebb and flow – cycles – that keep it running properly. Sleep plays a huge role in maintaining this equilibrium. Thus, if you’re deprived of proper rest, you may also suffer from bouts of depression.
Help is Available!
Thankfully, there is help for people suffering from sleep apnea. The first step, though, is to have a sleep study done if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.
If you are diagnosed with this condition, here are the two main methods available for treatment:
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Machine – One of the most common forms of treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP machine, which is comprised of a mask with an attached tube that runs to a machine that supplies constant oxygen throughout the night.
- Removable Device – For some, the CPAP machine is too cumbersome and bulky. Thus, your local dentist also offers a removable oral device that helps to keep your airway open, preventing disruptions in your breathing. Another attractive feature is that it’s small and portable, making it easier to travel with.
You now have a way to put an end to those sleepless nights. Just reach out to your dentist to schedule an appointment so that you can get on the road to peaceful slumber and productive days.
Above the Author
A graduate of The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, Dr. Eric Buck is passionate about his role in the Dublin community as a vanguard for oral health. As a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, he helps patients get the rest they need at Distinctive Smiles of Dublin and can be reached for more information through his website.