Learn More About Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders
At Advanced Dental Sleep Medicine our team can provide treatment for the two most common sleep-related breathing disorders: snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Snoring and OSA can result in restless sleep and can lead to more serious health problems. With a simple treatment method, we can ensure our patients enjoy better sleep and better health.
What Is a Sleep-Related Breathing Disorder?
As the name suggests, a sleep-related breathing disorder is a condition that disrupts our body’s natural breathing processes as we sleep. Snoring and sleep apnea are the two most common disorders. Fortunately, there are treatment options available to help you overcome these disorders and enjoy a more restful night's sleep.
Snoring and sleep apnea are the two most common sleep-related breathing disorders.
Symptoms of Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders
Symptoms can vary from patient to patient and may range from mild to more severe. If you suffer from a sleep-related breathing disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea, you may experience any combination of the following: excessive sleepiness or fatigue throughout the day, insomnia, loud snoring, frequent interruptions in breathing while sleeping, or chronic headaches or dry mouth upon waking. In some cases, patients are unaware of any symptoms, and their bed partners bring these signs to their attention.
About Snoring and OSA
While snoring may be related to sleep apnea, frequent and loud snoring does not always indicate the condition. Although snoring is often a nuisance for spouses, bed partners, or even other family members, it may not indicate a more serious condition.
Obstructive sleep apnea, on the other hand, has serious health implications. If your bed partner or someone else has told you that you snore loudly, the best course of action is to schedule an appointment.
If you suffer from a sleep-related breathing disorder such as sleep apnea or OSA, you may experience loud snoring.
Evaluating Your Condition
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, Dr. Radmand can do a screening, which may include an oral examination as well as a thorough review of your medical history. To diagnose sleep apnea, a polysomnography, or sleep study, is required. This study is performed by a sleep physician in a fully equipped and monitored facility or at home.