Millions of people suffer with obstructive sleep apnea. It not only takes a toll on a patient’s health and well being but also on their partner’s happiness. Snoring, exhaustion and irritability often accompany obstructive sleep apnea making life more difficult for everyone. Our Manhattan Beach Sleep Apnea Dentist wants you to understand what sleep apnea is, what causes it and who it affects. We know that an educated patient is a healthy patient. It is important that you seek treatment for this disorder as soon as you notice the warning signs.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
OSA is a condition in which a patient stops breathing or experiences blocked breathing while sleeping. If you experience OSA, your airway becomes blocked by soft oral tissue as you sleep. As a result your airway is blocked and you more snore regularly. You may even momentarily wake up to “restart” your breathing.
Who can develop Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
There are risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea that are important to keep in mind. Here are some of the more common risks associated with OSA:
- Overweight patients are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea
- A family history of sleep apnea puts you at increased risk
- Men are at greater risk than women
- Allergy sufferers are more likely to have OSA
- You may be at risk for OSA if you’ve suffered trauma to your nose
These are some common risk factors that describe who can be at greater risk for developing sleep apnea, but it is not a complete list . The truth is that virtually anyone can develop obstructive sleep apnea. If you find that you’re snoring regularly or jolting awake in the middle of the night speak to the Manhattan Beach Sleep Apnea Dentist about the possibility of OSA. We are committed to finding a solution to the problem and helping you get the good night’s sleep you need.
