If you suffer from interrupted nights, stopping and starting in your breathing, or loud snoring, you may have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition that affects your airflow while you sleep, causing disruptions in your sleep cycle and drowsiness during the day. Two of the most common causes of sleep apnea are tissues collapsing within your throat and your tongue rolling back and blocking the flow of air.
A sleep physician is qualified to diagnose sleep disorders. Our dentist, Dr. Asad Chaudhry recommends consulting both with your sleep doctor and your dentist to determine if you suffer from this condition. You can also look for these symptoms:
- Irritability, sensitivity or other distinct personality changes
- Loud snoring
- Chronic drowsiness
- A sore, dry throat in the morning
- Frequent waking up during the night
- Early morning headaches
Over time, these symptoms can not only affect your quality of life but lead to more serious conditions, like:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Liver disorders
Depending on the causes and on the severity of symptoms, treatments for sleep apnea can vary. Milder forms of the condition can often be addressed through an appliance that holds your tongue or jaw in the proper position while you sleep. For severe symptoms, the use of a CPAP machine or orthognathic surgery may be recommended. Find out more about sleep apnea treatments in Somerville, New Jersey, by calling 908-725-0200 today!