As an orthodontic practice that specializes in sleep apnea treatment, we at Ahava Orthodontics are passionate about raising awareness about this condition. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can lead to a host of health issues and should not be ignored. Let’s look at the five signs you may have sleep apnea, the health issues that come with it, the benefits of seeing an orthodontist, and why you should seek treatment sooner rather than later.
TLDR, we want you to know that sleep apnea is a serious health condition that can take off up to 10 years of your life span and you should see an orthodontist to get a proper diagnosis of an physical reasons why you are suffering from sleep apnea.
Sign #1: Chronic Loud Snoring
One of the most common signs of sleep apnea is loud and chronic snoring. If you snore loudly every night, it could be a sign that you are suffering from sleep apnea. When you have sleep apnea, your throat muscles relax during sleep and block your airway. As a result, your body has to work harder to breathe, which can cause you to snore.
Sign #2: Pauses in Breathing
Another sign of sleep apnea is pauses in breathing during sleep. If you notice that you stop breathing for a few seconds or more during sleep, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. These pauses in breathing can cause you to wake up gasping for air, which can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling tired and groggy during the day.
Sign #3: Morning Headaches
If you wake up with a headache or migraine, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. The decreased oxygen levels during sleep can cause the blood vessels in your brain to expand, which can lead to headaches and migraines. If you suffer from chronic headaches, it’s worth getting checked out by an orthodontist who can help determine if sleep apnea is the root cause.
Sign #4: Insomnia
If you struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. The interrupted breathing can cause you to wake up repeatedly throughout the night, which can lead to disrupted sleep and insomnia. As a result, you may find yourself feeling tired and groggy during the day, even if you got a full night’s sleep.
Sign #5: Dry Mouth and Sore Throat
If you wake up with a dry mouth or sore throat, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. The decreased oxygen levels can cause your mouth to open during sleep, which can lead to dryness and discomfort. If you notice that your mouth feels dry or your throat is sore when you wake up, it’s worth getting checked out by an orthodontist.
The Health Issues that Come with Sleep Apnea
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to a host of health issues, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. It can also worsen existing health conditions such as diabetes and asthma. Additionally, sleep apnea can cause chronic fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and even memory loss. If you suspect that you or a loved one has sleep apnea, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
The Benefits of Seeing an Orthodontist
Orthodontists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea. At Ahava Orthodontics, we offer customized orthodontic devices that can help keep the airway open during sleep, providing a comfortable and effective solution to sleep apnea. Our team of experienced orthodontists can help you find the right treatment plan that fits your unique needs and lifestyle.
Why You Should Seek Treatment Sooner Rather Than Later
Delaying treatment for sleep apnea can lead to further health problems and a decreased quality of life. Seeking treatment as soon as possible can help you get the restful, restorative sleep you need to feel your best. Additionally, getting treatment for sleep apnea can help reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
Furthermore, if left untreated, sleep apnea can worsen over time. As the condition progresses, the muscles in the throat may become weaker and the airway may become more obstructed, making it more difficult to breathe. This can lead to more severe health problems and can even be life-threatening.
Get Orthodontic Help for Your Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can have significant impacts on your health and quality of life. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. At Ahava Orthodontics, our team of experienced orthodontists can help you find the right treatment plan to fit your unique needs and lifestyle. Don’t wait until the condition worsens, take the first step towards better sleep and better health today.
