Sleep Apnea

Treat Sleep Apnea in Alexandria

You can improve your sleep quality and even extend your life with sleep apnea treatment.

Did you know that nearly 12 million people in America are affected by sleep apnea, and many of them are undiagnosed? If you feel tired during the day even after a full night’s sleep, or if you are wondering how to stop snoring, you may be one of these patients.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. The airway closes periodically during sleep, up to 20–30 times every hour! When the patient stops breathing, the lack of oxygen alerts the brain, causing a brief awakening to restart breathing.

These nighttime awakenings are so brief that the patient may not remember them the next morning. However, most patients will notice the effects of sleep apnea. Low energy levels, memory loss, and mood swings are all symptoms of sleep apnea.

Patients with sleep apnea are constantly getting poor sleep. They suffer from frequent daytime drowsiness and increased health risks.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea may be caused by a variety of factors. Patients who want to know what causes sleep apnea should look at factors such as weight, sleeping position, medications, and alcohol usage. Some patients without any risk factors may also develop sleep apnea.

To learn more about what causes sleep apnea, explore the types of sleep apnea listed below.

Types of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is caused by a physical blockage. The soft tissue in the throat may collapse, or the tongue may block the airway.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) occurs when breathing stops because the muscles do not receive a signal from the brain.

Complex Sleep Apnea is a combination of OSA and CSA.

All types of sleep apnea leave a patient tired and wondering how to stop snoring.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Watch out for the signs of sleep apnea. If you believe yourself or your loved one has sleep apnea, schedule an evaluation today.

• Tiredness during the day.
• Falling asleep during the day.
• Loud snoring or gasping sounds during sleep.
• Waking up during the night.
• Headaches and dry throat upon awakening in the morning.
• Mood swings.
• Decreased focus, concentration, or memory.

What Are the Health Risks of Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea means poor sleep quality and low oxygen levels during sleep. This condition is linked to higher risks of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, and depression.

Get Started With Sleep Apnea Treatment Today

We handle mild to moderate sleep apnea cases. We offer a conservative yet effective sleep apnea treatment method—a sleep apnea appliance.

Patients are surprised that treatment can be so simple. They instantly see improvements in their energy levels and life quality as they comply with treatment.

At Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry, we customize your sleep apnea appliance to ensure it works optimally. If you want to know how to stop snoring and get better sleep and are in the Alexandria – Mt Vernon area, contact our office today.