Obstructive Sleep Apnea – Aspen Hill, MD
Enjoy Quality Rest with Effective Sleep Apnea Treatment
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder where breathing stops or becomes shallow repeatedly during sleep due to a blocked airway. It's estimated that 22 million Americans suffer from OSA, but about 80 percent remain undiagnosed. At Exceptional Dentistry, Dr. Saba and the rest of the team are dedicated to providing safe and effective solutions to enhance patients' well-being. Early treatment of OSA can significantly improve quality of life. Reach out to schedule an appointment and discover how we can help you breathe easier and sleep better!
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea presents in two main types, both characterized by frequent pauses in breathing during sleep. Central sleep apnea arises from a failure of the brain to send signals prompting breathing. The more common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when tissues in the upper airway obstruct airflow, causing repeated breathing interruptions. Patients with OSA may experience numerous pauses in breathing each night, ranging from dozens to hundreds.
Causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea typically occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep. As throat muscles relax, they collapse, obstructing airflow and leading to pauses in breathing. After around 10 seconds without breathing, oxygen levels drop, prompting the brain to wake the body to resume breathing. This cycle can vary in intensity, with some patients experiencing numerous episodes throughout the night.
Possible Complications of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
When left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can severely impair a person's daily functioning, leading to various serious complications, such as:
- Elevated risk of drowsy driving accidents
- Workplace accidents due to decreased alertness
- Increased likelihood of stroke or heart attack
- High blood pressure
- Development of diabetes and heart disease
- Chronic fatigue
- Mood swings and irritability
- Weight gain and obesity
- Bedwetting
- Decreased libido
- Frequent headaches
When Should You See a Doctor?
Recognizing when it's time to seek medical help isn't always straightforward, particularly if you don't have someone observing your sleep patterns. However, if you or a loved one notice any of the signs below, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Exceptional Dentistry. We'll promptly schedule a consultation to assess your situation and determine the best course of action.
Contact us if you notice the following:
- Disturb others with your loud snoring
- Awaken suddenly gasping or choking due to breathing pauses
- Discover that you frequently stop breathing while asleep
- Struggle with persistent daytime fatigue impacting your work or driving ability