Sleep Apnea Symptoms
For those that have sleep apnea, the symptoms are not always apparent. You could have sleep apnea and go undiagnosed and untreated for years, while this disorder impacts your health and well-being. Knowing the symptoms can help alert you to this condition, giving you the opportunity to get treatment. Our team at Bob Perkins, DDS, in Malibu can help you identify the symptoms, get a diagnosis and treat sleep apnea to improve your health.
Sleep apnea has different forms, but the most common is obstructive. This condition occurs when your airway is blocked during sleep, stopping your breathing at intervals throughout the night. Not only does this interrupt your sleep, it can cause damage to your body. Those with sleep apnea are at higher risk for cardiovascular issues like stroke and high blood pressure. They also are more prone to type 2 diabetes and fatigue. Watching for symptoms can help you get the medical care you need to protect your health.
Signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is commonly linked with loud, consistent snoring. While this is a symptom, not all people that snore have sleep apnea. However, when it is combined with other signs of this disorder, it is more likely that your snoring is caused by obstructions of your airway. The other signs to watch for include:
- Headaches, especially when you first wake up
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Feeling tired, even when you get a full night of sleep
- Waking up throughout the night, including frequent bathroom trips
- Periods when breathing stops for more than 10 seconds during sleep
Although sleep apnea is common, this does not make it any less deadly. If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, it is important to seek treatment. One of the common causes of sleep apnea is poor positioning of the lower jaw. This can be due to orthodontic or dental issues, as well as TMJ. Our specialists at Bob Perkins, DDS, in Malibu can identify and treat neuromuscular dental and orthodontic issues that may be contributing to your sleep apnea to improve your health. Contact our office today to schedule your exam and sleep apnea treatment.