What Is Sleep Apnea? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Understanding Sleep Apnea: A Serious Sleep Disorder

Have you ever been told that you snore loudly or stop breathing while sleeping? These could be signs of sleep apnea, a potentially serious sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to severe health complications such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and even stroke.

In this guide, we’ll explore sleep apnea, its symptoms, causes, and available treatments. If you or a loved one is struggling with sleep apnea, contact our Dental Sleep Clinic in Timonium, MD, at 410-832-5858 to learn about effective treatment options.

1. What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last from a few seconds to minutes and occur multiple times per hour. As a result, oxygen levels drop, and the brain signals the body to wake up to resume breathing.

There are three main types of sleep apnea:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common type, caused by airway blockage due to relaxed throat muscles.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): A neurological condition where the brain fails to send proper signals to breathing muscles.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A combination of both OSA and CSA.

Source: Sleep Foundation – Sleep Apnea Overview

2. Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Many people with sleep apnea are unaware they have it, as symptoms occur during sleep. Common signs include:

Nighttime Symptoms:

Loud, persistent snoring
Gasping or choking sounds
Pauses in breathing observed by a partner
Frequent waking up at night

Daytime Symptoms:

Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability or mood swings

If you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional help. Call 410-832-5858 today for a consultation.

3. Causes and Risk Factors of Sleep Apnea

Several factors contribute to sleep apnea, including:

Excess Weight: Obesity increases the risk of airway obstruction.
Neck Circumference: A thicker neck may narrow the airway.
Age: Sleep apnea is more common in older adults.
Family History: Genetics can play a role.
Smoking and Alcohol Use: These can relax throat muscles and worsen symptoms.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like hypertension and diabetes can contribute to sleep apnea.

Source: Mayo Clinic – Sleep Apnea Causes

4. Why Sleep Apnea Is Dangerous

Ignoring sleep apnea can lead to serious health consequences, including:

High blood pressure
Heart disease and stroke
Diabetes complications
Increased risk of accidents due to daytime drowsiness

Long-Term Effects:

Chronic sleep deprivation from sleep apnea can also weaken the immune system, cause memory issues, and contribute to weight gain.

5. How Sleep Apnea Is Diagnosed

A sleep specialist will conduct tests such as:

Polysomnography (PSG): An overnight sleep study that monitors brain activity, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing patterns.
Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT): A simplified test that monitors breathing and oxygen levels at home.

If diagnosed, the next step is treatment—and our team at the Dental Sleep Clinic in Timonium, MD, can help. Call 410-832-5858 to discuss your options.

6. Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Here are common options:

Lifestyle Changes:

Losing weight
Avoiding alcohol and smoking
Sleeping on your side instead of your back

Medical Treatments:

Oral Appliance Therapy: A custom-fit oral device that keeps the airway open during sleep.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A machine that delivers air pressure to keep the airway open.
Surgery: For severe cases, surgical options may be recommended to remove airway obstructions.

Why Choose Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliances are a comfortable, non-invasive alternative to CPAP therapy. They are effective in treating mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and are easy to use. If CPAP isn’t working for you, call 410-832-5858 to see if an oral appliance is right for you.

7. How to Improve Sleep Quality With Sleep Apnea

Even with treatment, practicing good sleep habits can enhance your sleep quality:

Stick to a regular sleep schedule.
Create a comfortable sleep environment (cool, dark, and quiet room).
Limit caffeine and screen time before bed.
Use an oral appliance for uninterrupted sleep.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that affects your health and quality of life. If you or a loved one snores loudly, experiences daytime fatigue, or has other symptoms, don’t wait to get help.

At the Dental Sleep Clinic in Timonium, MD, we specialize in oral appliance therapy as an effective, comfortable alternative to CPAP machines.