 |
Let’s be honest. Snoring is obnoxious, but you can’t help it. You should know, snoring could indicate a life-threatening condition known as sleep apnea. Dr. Mason has studied diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and she offers non-surgical treatment right here in our Midlothian, VA dental office.
 About Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is caused by soft tissues in the throat and mouth blocking airflow for periods of 10 to 30 seconds, repeatedly during sleep. Even when you’re in a sound sleep, when you stop breathing, your body will trigger your brain to make you awaken for oxygen intake. Many sleep apnea sufferers wake abruptly, choking or gasping for air. The condition inhibits the ability to reach REM sleep, the stage of sleep when your body can really rest and renew.
Causes and Risks
Men are more prone to sleep apnea, though women and children can have the condition. Genetic proclivity for the condition, oversized adenoids and tonsils, recessed chin, small upper airway, being overweight, alcohol or sedative use, smoking, and sinus congestion can contribute to the risk of developing OSA.
Symptoms and Health Concerns
Snoring is one of the primary symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea. If you have OSA, you may also feel drowsy, forgetful, or irritable during the day. A decreased sex drive and morning headaches can arise. Some patients fall asleep at inappropriate times – even while driving! Without proper rest, your health and quality of life can decline. Even more serious, sleep apnea can increase potential for heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke, and depression.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Dr. Mason screens her patients for sleep apnea with the Ares ambulatory sleep study or Watch-pat. These home studies are simple and non-invasive. Dr. Mason can review the results with you and explain your condition. The American Sleep Apnea Association recommends polysomnography, (PSG), to measure blood oxygen levels, brain waves, breathing rate, electrical muscle stimulation, eye movement, heart rate, and body position. A polysomnograph is performed in sleep lab, and Dr. Mason will be happy to refer a respected lab for you and your child.
If you have sleep apnea, treatment may involve a Somnodent appliance, made by Somnomed, that you wear when sleeping. The acryllic nightguard keeps the lower jaw slightly forward, yet comfortable, to deter airflow blockage.
CPAP Intolleracne
Many patients try a CPAP machine before turning to a dentist for sleep apnea treatment. CPAP stands for continuous positive air pressure, and the machine is the gold standard for medical treatment of sleep apnea. However, the CPAP can be uncomfortable or ineffective for some. About 25-50% of patients try CPAP don’t use it correctly, or don’t use it at all. If you struggle with your CPAP, SomnoMed could be the answer.
Dr. Mason is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Visit the site here to take a self-test that will help you determine if your snoring problem is serious.
Schedule Your Visit Today!
Dr. Erika Mason and our team will exceed your expectation of excellence! Call today to schedule a personal consultation, and we’ll take time to listen to your concerns, evaluate your smile and oral health, then work with you to develop a custom treatment plan that addresses all of your unique needs. Located in Midlothian, VA, our practice serves patients from all of the surrounding communities.
|
