Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a disorder that causes the back of the throat to relax during sleep. According to your dentist in East Greenbush, there are billions of people all over the world that deal with obstructive sleep apnea or OSA. For most sufferers CPAP therapy is their only relief.
What is CPAP Therapy?
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy is a system that is used to force your airways open when you sleep. Using a machine that is hooked up to a tube and mask, the machine stays on continuously through the night.
Although CPAP machines have improved over the years, they are still cumbersome and for most, uncomfortable. CPAP therapy does work, but unfortunately, most patients give it up after a few weeks or months.
A CPAP machine is also a nuisance to whoever is sharing the bed. CPAP machines are not as loud as they used to be, but you can still hear them.
If you have obstructive sleep apnea, you know the signs, but for those who don’t, here are some symptoms to watch for:
Signs and Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Loud chronic snoring
- Trouble concentrating
- Waking up abruptly
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Observed breathing interruption
- Gasping for breath while sleeping
- Daytime sleepiness
- Decreased libido
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat
- Morning headaches
If you have any of the above symptoms see your doctor and ask about a sleep study. This will determine if you are suffering from OSA.
Oral Appliance Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Dr. J Craig Alexander is a preferred oral appliance therapy provider and can put your CPAP nightmares to an end. If you are using a CPAP machine or have recently been diagnosed with OSA call and schedule an appointment for oral appliance therapy. You’ll sleep better and so will everyone else in the house.