Mar 16, 2018
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Sleep Disorders

Do You Have a Sleep Related Breathing Problem?

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leep breathing problems are relatively common but few people realize they have them. Because they take place when a person is fast asleep, it can be difficult to know if this is what causes a person to suffer from health problems. In our office, we have found that the majority of people who discover they have a physical breathing problem had no idea until the results of their test came back. This makes it a good idea to visit our office if someone is experiencing any of the following symptoms

  • Difficulty sleeping at night
  • Constantly feeling fatigued
  • Having low energy
  • Regularly getting sick or feeling unwell
  • Constantly snoring
  • Making choking noises during sleep
  • Excessive sweating while sleeping

These are just a few indications that a person may be suffering from a sleep problem that is treatable.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is Relatively Common

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs because the lower jaw falls backward when someone is sleeping and the tongue falls backward with it. The tongue then blocks the airways so that a person cannot breathe clearly or freely. As a result, the night is spent with someone choking, snoring and struggling to move the tongue so they can get as much air as possible. Due to a lack of oxygen, a person can be entirely exhausted, even though they got a full night sleep. Sleep breathing problem can happen nightly basis without anyone ever realizing it's going on. This is why we recommend visiting our office so that we can run a test and determine what's happening.

Treating Sleep Related Breathing Problems

Fortunately, we can treat sleep problems relatively easy. One of the easiest ways to get started is to wear an oral appliance at night. This prevents the tongue from falling backward to ensure that the airways do not become obstructed and it is possible to receive greater levels of oxygen during sleep. For some patients, this is all that is necessary to see an improvement to their overall health and well-being. Since the oral appliance is created using the specifications of each patient's mouth, it fits securely and comfortably so that there are no issues while sleeping. It should remain securely in place even if a person moves around while sleeping.

Some patients may also require the use of a CPAP machine. This is a device that can be used independently or in conjunction with an oral appliance and increases the level of oxygen that a person receives while sleeping.

Both treatments can seriously increase a person's energy levels and reduce the likelihood of them suffering from health problems.

Find Out if You Have Sleep Related Breathing Problems

It is important to remember that most people go through life with no idea that they have this problem. This can lead to ongoing health problems that could be prevented. By simply visiting us for a test and sleep treatment, it is possible to improve health without taking medications or undergoing surgery. The key is to schedule the appointment and begin treatment today.