Many people know someone who snores, whether it be a partner, relative, or themselves. While occasional snoring might not be an initial concern, chronic snoring can actually be indicative of a bigger issue at hand. Indeed, sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea not only influence your day-to-day function but also your overall health. That being said, it is important to speak with a skilled sleep dentist sooner rather than waiting for the issue to get worse. In today’s blog, your Schertz, TX, sleep dentist identifies the different ways sleep apnea can affect your health and what our team can do to help you get a good night’s rest.
If your partner or family member reports hearing you gasp for air during the night, or you demonstrate cyclical periods of holding your breath, it may be time to reach out to a sleep specialist and ask about the possibility of sleep apnea. This sleep disorder is characterized by a blocked airway, preventing an appropriate amount of oxygen from making its way to the lungs and brain. As a result, the brain sends signals to fix the issue by briefly waking you, leading to a repeated cycle of holding your breath and gasping for air.
Because you are unable to get a restful night of sleep, the effects of sleep apnea become apparent during the daytime. Symptoms may include daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating or paying attention, irritability, hypersomnia, headache, and more. Call our office today to ask our team about your condition and what we recommend for a better night’s rest.
In addition to the daytime side effects, people experiencing a sleep disorder oftentimes have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep at night. It can be difficult at times, however, to be certain of your condition if you sleep alone. To find out if you may be suffering from sleep apnea or other sleep issues, take our online sleep risk quiz here. After obtaining your results, reach out to our team to set up your initial consultation.
The short-term effects of a sleep disorder can be troubling to deal with on their own, but failing to seek treatment can ultimately result in physical health issues and even a shortened life expectancy. Untreated, sleep apnea can lead to an increase in cardiovascular concerns such as heart attack, hypertension, or congestive heart failure; increased risk of stroke; increased insulin resistance and glucose tolerance; and more. Do not wait to prioritize your health, and contact our office.
Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can be life-altering and even deadly, so do not wait to seek treatment if you suspect you are exhibiting signs. Call Dr. Drake’s Sleep Solutions in Schertz, TX, by dialing (210) 541-9001 today to schedule your appointment and speak to a member of our team today. We serve patients in Schertz, San Antonio, and surrounding communities.