Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is essentially a condition that obstructs your airway during sleep. This can cause you wake to up from deep sleep, often gasping for air before you fall back to sleep and the process repeats itself. What's worse is that you may not be aware of these episodes, and the condition can affect your ability to get a good night's sleep. So which symptoms could alert you to OSA? Here is a look at common signs that you should seek sleep apnea treatment.
Difficult breathing and fatigue
Snoring that comes with mouth breathing during sleep is one of the common symptoms of OSA. This could also include sinus problems or trouble breathing through your nose.
OSA also affects your breathing, preventing your body from getting enough oxygen as you sleep. The sleep disorder also denies you some much needed rest due to waking up numerous times at night so you can resume normal breathing.
This can result in headaches upon waking along with fatigue during the day. Lack of proper rest could also make you more irritable or make it hard for you to concentrate during the day. If you experience any of these signs, schedule a visit to your dentist immediately.
Large neck circumference and jaw pain
If you are overweight and have a large neck circumference, you may be at risk of OSA. This is because the neck muscles that control your breathing tend to collapse during sleep, obstructing your airway. Obesity is a major risk factor for sleep apnea, especially if combined with symptoms such as fatigue, headaches and trouble focusing.
Severe teeth grinding during sleep could also misalign the jaw and obstruct your airway due to poor tongue placement. Symptoms of teeth grinding include jaw pain and worn out tooth enamel, and seeking treatment for this condition could help you breathe easier and get a better night's sleep.
Acid reflux
Acid reflux essentially causes sleep apnea by causing the muscles of your neck to spasm during sleep, resulting in difficulty breathing. Avoiding carbonated drinks, alcohol and coffee during bedtime or taking meals a few hours before you sleep could help reduce acid reflux and prevent breathing difficulties.
Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious condition that can increase your risk for chronic diseases and even premature death. If you have any of the above symptoms, visit a dental clinic for evaluation and treatment. A dentist can prescribe an oral device to help keep your airway open at night so you can get a proper night's sleep and avoid other health complications.
