If you’re one of the millions of individuals who suffer from sleep apnea, then you should consult Dr. Clifford Compton in South Concord, NC. You might be accustomed to going to the dentist only to have your cavities filled or to get rid of plaque. However, Dr. Compton can actually help fix your snoring, too.
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
This sleep disorder causes temporary stoppage in the breathing of a person while he or she is asleep. While there are different forms of sleep apnea, the most common form is the obstructive kind. With obstructive sleep apnea, the throat muscles relax while you are asleep and they block the airways. The most common symptom of sleep apnea is snoring. So ask your spouse, partner or roommate if you snore if you suspect that you might have sleep apnea.
Who has the highest risk for obstructive sleep apnea?
Anyone can have sleep apnea, however, middle-aged to older individuals carry higher risks for developing the condition. At the same time, individuals who are overweight are also likelier to develop sleep apnea. Smokers, as well as males, also carry higher risks for sleep apnea.
What are the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea?
Individuals who have sleep apnea often suffer from excessive sleepiness during the day because of the interruptions in breathing which happens while one is asleep. On top of loud snoring, it’s also common for individuals suffering from sleep apnea to just suddenly wake up which is accompanied by shortness of breath. Other symptoms include insomnia, hypertension and morning headaches. If you sleep with someone, you can also ask him or her if he or she has noticed any temporary cessations in your breathing while you are asleep. Most sleep apnea sufferers do not know that they are suffering from the condition up until somebody tells them.
What can Dr. Compton do to treat your sleep apnea?
Sports appliances have been proven to be successful in treating sleep apnea. Oral devices can be used to open up a sufferer’s throat while he or she is asleep and prevent any caving in of throat muscles which could cause the airways to close down. Other oral appliances also work by moving the jaw forward which can also help prevent both snoring and sleep apnea. However, going through a number of lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or kicking the smoking habit, can also provide lasting relief from sleep apnea.
If you believe you suffer from sleep apnea, discuss your options with Dr. Compton and his staff in South Concord, NC to help you towards a better night sleep.
