Does your partner’s loud snoring cause you to lose precious sleep? It can be annoying to be lying awake while the person next to you is in a deep sleep. But the truth is that, despite all the noise you hear, your partner may not be sleeping peacefully at all if the source of the snoring is obstructive sleep apnea or OSA.
Sleep apnea can be a debilitating condition that ruins sleep for everyone and also leads to significant health problems. If you or your partner are dealing with the effects of sleep apnea in Kingsport, TN, here are some basic facts you need to know.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
During sleep, the muscles and soft tissue in the back of your throat naturally relax and collapse, and for most people, this isn’t a problem. But for millions of others who have OSA, this leads to complete obstruction of the airway that makes breathing difficult or impossible, and the noise you hear may be a result of your partner struggling to breathe.
What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Sleep deprivation takes a toll on your general health. Some symptoms to look for are:
- Loud snoring
- Choking or gasping during sleep
- Lack of energy or fatigue during the day
- Waking up frequently during the night
- Headaches upon waking in the morning
- Forgetfulness or mood changes
- Sleepiness while driving
It’s important to note that loud snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea, but not everyone who snores does so because of sleep apnea.
How We Treat Sleep Apnea
In many cases, treating sleep apnea in Kingsport, TN may be as simple as wearing an oral device customized for you at Hagan Dentistry.
The appliance sits over the front teeth and repositions your jaw so that it moves slightly forward during sleep. This prevents the tongue from falling back and obstructing the airway.
Please Call Us for A Consultation
The only way to know if this device is right for you is to meet with Dr. Andrew Hagan. He will work with your primary care doctor or a sleep specialist who can determine if this treatment approach is right for you.