This sleep disorder is characterized by brief periods when breathing stops. This may last for a few seconds to several minutes before breathing resumes. Most sufferers are unaware of the condition unless a loved one notices. There are several other symptoms of sleep apnea commonly experienced by those who suffer from this sleep disorder:

• Loud snoring with periods of silence
• Awakening during the night with shortness of breath
• Excessive drowsiness during the day
• Difficulty staying asleep
• Waking in the morning with a headache, dry mouth, or sore throat
• Insomnia
• Sounds of Gasping and Choking
• Daytime Fatigue
• Headaches in the morning time

What are the types of Sleep Apnea?

There are two forms of sleep apnea that can be treated with a dental oral appliance for sleep apnea. Central apnea is due to improper signals from the brain to breathing muscles. The most common form, obstructive apnea, occurs when throat muscles relax and tissues from the upper airway temporarily block the flow of air. Living with this disorder can lead to the development of other health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart problems, mood swings, a frequent need to urinate at night, and liver problems. Loud snoring may disturb other family members, however, this disorder is not always associated with snoring. Treatment for sleep apnea may involve devices that control airway pressure, the use of dental appliances, surgical interventions, or lifestyle changes. Those who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea in the Ruston and Northeast Louisiana region may be good candidates for a dental oral appliance at Johnston Dental Care.

Dental appliances allow the throat to remain open by affecting the tongue, the jaw, or both, while preventing soft tissue from collapsing into the back of the throat. The jaw and tongue are repositioned and stabilized with the use of a dental appliance. Dental devices such as an oral mouthpiece are advantageous to users because they are:

• Small
• Comfortable
• Easy to adjust to
• Portable
• Reversible
• Non-invasive
• Easily tolerated by most people

Obstructive sleep apnea increases your risk of higher blood pressure also known as hypertension. It can also increase the risk of sudden heart attacks as well as an elevated risk of irregular heartbeats associated with things like atrial affribillation and can also lead to stroke.

Servicing the Ruston and Monroe LA area, Johnston and Murphy Dental Care is committed to meeting your needs. If you suspect that you or a loved one has obstructive sleep apnea, call Dr. Lamar Johnston today at (318) 255-6780 or email [email protected].