A partner who snores loudly can be a nuisance and cause you to miss out on quality sleep. This uncomfortable situation can even force partners into separate rooms, negatively impacting their relationship.
Did you know that loud snoring is also an indication of a serious health condition known as obstructive sleep apnoea? Sleep apnoea occurs when the tissues at the back of the throat or the tongue relax during sleep and block the airway.
How to Know if You Have Sleep Apnoea
A clinical sleep study will be necessary to determine if you suffer from sleep apnoea, but some identifiable symptoms can also indicate a problem:
- Waking with a sore throat
- Daytime fatigue
- Choking or waking from sleep
- Weight gain
- High blood pressure
- Mood disorders
You may first discover that you snore or stop breathing during sleep when a partner or family member alerts you to a problem. It is best to address sleep apnoea immediately as it can lead to a number of health conditions.
Health Complications Linked to Sleep Apnoea
Because sleep apnoea leads to waking during sleep, it interrupts the body’s natural and necessary restorative sleep cycles. Patients with severe sleep apnoea can wake up anywhere from dozens to hundreds of time during the night. Lack of restorative sleep negatively impacts nearly every system in the body.
Sleep apnoea can lead to:
- Heart disease
- Early death
- Dangerous operation of vehicles
Treatment of Sleep Apnoea and Snoring
Once an accurate diagnosis occurs, treatment for sleep apnoea often begins with CPAP (continuous positive air pressure) therapy. The patient wears a mask during sleep that forces air pressure into the airway to keep it open. Unfortunately, many patients have difficulty using the CPAP machine and will remove it during sleep or refuse to use it altogether.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Since sleep apnoea is a severe condition, an effective approach is critical.
At CDK Dental, we offer an effective alternative called oral appliance therapy. A custom oral appliance designed to gently adjust the jaw allows for the free flow of air during sleep. Many patients find this treatment option preferable to CPAP therapy. It can provide relief for patients with mild to moderate cases of sleep apnoea. It can also be used in conjunction with CPAP therapy for patients who suffer from severe obstructive sleep apnoea.
A similar device can control snoring in the absence of a sleep apnoea diagnosis, creating a better sleep environment for you and your partner.
Are You Ready for a Better Night’s Sleep?
We welcome you to contact our Sydney dental clinic for a booking to discuss snoring and sleep apnoea. Dr Chris Karikios provides effective solutions to allow for the type of restful sleep that improves overall health.