We tend to think of snoring, one of the telltale signs of obstructive sleep apnea, as a quaint and somewhat amusing characteristic. We may even tease a spouse or older relative about it. But when we understand that this sleep disorder involves recurring interruptions of breathing throughout the night, and a resulting dip in oxygen for the body, the subject becomes more serious.
Experienced San Diego area dentist Dr. Jennifer D. Santoro and her team are skilled in screening for this common nighttime disorder, and helping patients explore effective treatment options.
Respiratory Risk
Sleep apnea has been linked to an array of diseases and conditions, including congestive heart failure, cardiac arrhythmia, stroke, high blood pressure, problems with memory, sexual dysfunction, depression, irritability and chronic fatigue.
Individuals with this condition experience interruptions in normal breathing during sleep that typically last at least 10 seconds, as throat muscles fail to maintain an open airway. The root cause of sleep apnea is often genetic: Snoring is more prevalent among some families and ethnic groups. In addition, if you inherited a small upper airway, recessed chin, extensive overbite or large tongue, neck or tonsils, you are more likely to suffer from the condition. Yet sleep apnea is also strongly correlated with certain lifestyle habits, such as overeating that leads to obesity.
Nighttime Observation
If you’ve been told by family or friends that you snore loudly and often, and even periodically choke or stop breathing, it is important you have your sleep evaluated by a professional. Sleep apnea is commonly diagnosed after an overnight observation at a sleep center. This comprehensive sleep study evaluates the various states of sleep during the night, heart rate, breathing, eye movement, muscle activity and the amount of oxygen in the blood. Just as important as diagnosing sleep apnea is determining how severe the condition may be.
Available Treatments
A commonly prescribed treatment option is a CPAP machine that helps regulate breathing at night. This “continuous positive airway pressure” unit includes a mask that fits over the nose and mouth and creates a gentle stream of air to support normal breathing. Other options include a dental appliance that holds the jaw and tongue in a position that promotes normal breathing, and a disposable valve known as a nasal expiratory positive airway pressure device that covers the nostrils.
Lifestyle modification is also key. For obese patients, losing significant weight can actually cure sleep apnea. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are also important, as both habits interfere with proper functioning of the upper airway. Smoking swells this breathing passage and alcohol relaxes its muscles. Sometimes even trying a different sleep position can mitigate the problem, especially for mild cases.
To schedule your appointment, or to learn more about sleep apnea, call Dr. Santoro at (858) 566-8510, or email Village Center Dentistry in Scripps Ranch today.
