If you snore and feel fatigued during the day, ask your doctor or dentist about sleep apnea. This common sleep disorder affects an estimated 22 million people across the United States—with serious long-term health consequences if not treated. Thankfully, there are some simple solutions to the condition.

What to Know About Sleep Apnea

Apnea means that the patient stops breathing temporarily, usually while they're asleep. The most common form is called obstructive sleep apnea and happens when the muscles of the tongue and palate lose tone. As they relax, they can sag into the airway, blocking it. A less common form is called central sleep apnea; in this case, the lack of breathing is due to the interruption of signals from the brain. A single person can have both problems, causing what is known as complex sleep apnea syndrome.

Risks of Sleep Apnea

Because your breathing is interrupted frequently during the night, you will not sleep soundly. This can cause fatigue, drowsiness, increased stress, and long term health risks associated with restless nights. The most significant effects include an increased risk of diabetes, significant high blood pressure, a greater risk of heart disease, and even a greater chance of being diagnosed with some cancers.

Treatment

While central or complex sleep apnea requires treatment by a physician, obstructive sleep apnea can often be solved by a simple trip to the dentist. A mandibular advancement device, or MAD, can be worn at night to shift your jaw forward while you sleep. Doing this keeps your airway from sagging closed and ensures a full night of deep, restful sleep. More intensive treatment options include CPAP equipment, which assists in breathing.

If you’re worried about the possibility of sleep apnea, reach out to the team at King Campbell. Based in Pagosa Springs, CO, and serving Archuleta County, this experienced dentist provides a full range of care options in a state-of-the-art facility. If you need a second opinion on your dental work, Dr. Campbell will provide one free of charge. To make an appointment, call (970) 731-2126. To learn more about this dentist and his team, visit them online.