Obstructive sleep apnea affects millions of Americans. Sleep apnea is most commonly marked by the symptom of snoring. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may sound like snoring, but the effects on your body are quite different than the effects of simple snoring. If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, you may have increased risks for several dangerous health conditions. OSA can lead to a higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, frequent headaches, mood swings, diabetes, drowsiness, weight gain, acid reflux, and more. Your dentist can help to treat your sleep apnea, which can lower your risk of developing these problems with your health.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
OSA occurs when the soft tissues of your mouth and throat collapse and block your airway. This airway blockage can signal to your brain that you are suffocating. Your brain will cause your body to gasp to get oxygen into your blood. Your loud snoring will probably be paired with frequent gasps for air. You may not remember waking up, but your body will feel the effects of not getting a restful night’s sleep. If you sleep nearby someone else, they may also be bothered by your loud, gasping snoring.
Why Is It Dangerous?
The constant disruptions to the amount of oxygen in your blood can cause difficulty regulating your bloodstream. Your body may overcompensate for the consistent lack of oxygen by causing your heart to pump harder to increase the oxygen in your blood. This can lead to high blood pressure that can lead to strokes or heart attacks. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common for people with OSA. Sleep apnea causes air to move in and out during sleep that can cause irregular pressure changes. These pressure changes can suck the contents of the stomach back up into the esophagus. OSA affects your sleep pattern, which can lead to you feeling drowsy even after a full night’s sleep. This drowsiness can be dangerous behind the wheel or it can lead to mood swings, weight gain, or headaches.
Ask Dr. Carmona about sleep apnea treatment.
Treating obstructive sleep apnea can decrease your risk of these health dangers. To schedule a consultation with Austin Prosthodontics in Austin, TX, call 512-250-9444. We also proudly welcome patients from Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Leander, and all surrounding Texas communities.
