A sign of obstructive sleep apnea is snoring interrupted by short pauses of silence, which are usually followed by gasping or choking. Bed partners often notice this warning sign. When a sign such as this is identified, it is important to seek treatment. Patients who suffer from snoring and other problems related to sleep apnea turn to caring dentist Dr. Clint Bruyere at his Longview dental practice.

Understanding the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea involves short periods, throughout the night, during which you stop breathing. You may have headaches in the morning or at night. This means your body does not receive sufficient air supply while sleeping. Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include:

• Heartburn or a sour taste in the mouth at night
• Not feeling refreshed after waking up
• Excessive tiredness during the day
• Difficulty concentrating during the day and remembering things
• Sweating and chest pain during sleep
• Changes in personality
• Leg swelling

Seeking treatment for obstructive sleep apnea

If you have experienced any symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, you are not alone. More than 18 million Americans suffer from the sleep disorder. Therefore, it is important to understand the treatments available. The most common treatment prescribed for obstructive sleep apnea is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). A CPAP device keeps the airway open by delivering air through a mask. Although this treatment method is effective, many people report side effects due to equipment issues and several other concerns.

Dr. Bruyere provides an alternative treatment to the CPAP device – oral appliance therapy. An oral appliance is similar to a retainer and worn during sleep. The appliance can help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw or tongue, allowing an adequate intake of air while sleeping. An oral appliance is typically more convenient, more comfortable, and less expensive than a CPAP device. 

Left untreated, sleep apnea can cause diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, or strokes. Therefore, seeking treatment is critical. To explore treatment for sleep apnea, call our team at (903) 708-6116 today to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Bruyere.

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