Sleep Apnea in San Mateo, CA

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These interruptions can last for a few seconds to minutes and may occur multiple times throughout the night. The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is caused by a blockage or narrowing of the airway, usually when the soft tissues at the back of the throat collapse.

Another less common type is central sleep apnea (CSA), where the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Complex sleep apnea syndrome (CompSA) combines aspects of both OSA and CSA.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that can have various symptoms. 

• One common symptom is loud snoring, which may be accompanied by pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last for a few seconds or even minutes and may occur multiple times throughout the night.
• Another symptom of sleep apnea is excessive daytime sleepiness. People with this condition often feel tired and fatigued, no matter how much they slept the night before. This constant feeling of exhaustion can negatively impact their daily activities and overall quality of life.
• In addition to snoring and daytime sleepiness, other symptoms include morning headaches, dry mouth or sore throat upon waking up, difficulty concentrating, irritability, depression, and frequent urination at night.

It's important to note that not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. However, if you experience these symptoms on a regular basis, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea early on, you can take steps towards seeking proper diagnosis and treatment options that will improve your overall well-being.

Treating Sleep Apnea

Treating sleep apnea is crucial for improving overall quality of life and reducing the risks associated with this sleep disorder. There are several treatment options available, depending on the severity and type of sleep apnea.

• One common method of treatment is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. This involves wearing a mask over the nose or mouth during sleep, which delivers a constant flow of air to keep the airways open. It can be highly effective in alleviating symptoms and preventing interruptions in breathing.
• Another option is oral appliance therapy, where a custom-fitted device is worn in the mouth to help keep the airways open while sleeping. These appliances work by repositioning the jaw or tongue to maintain an unobstructed airflow.
• The dentist may recommend lifestyle changes such as weight loss, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime for individuals with mild cases of sleep apnea. These changes can help reduce excess weight that contributes to the narrowing of the airways.
• In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat underlying structural issues that contribute to sleep apnea. Surgical procedures vary depending on individual needs but can include removing tonsils or adenoids, correcting nasal abnormalities, or even jaw advancement surgery.

It's important for individuals with sleep apnea to consult with our dentist in San Mateo, CA to determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on their specific condition. By addressing and treating sleep apnea effectively, individuals can experience improved restful nights and better overall health outcomes.

Don't let sleep apnea hinder your ability to enjoy life's precious moments – seek help today for restorative slumber tonight! Call us at (650) 342-0474 to book an appointment with Courtin Family Dentistry, and we shall guide you further with Sleep Apnea and its treatment.