Untreated Sleep Apnea Can Decrease Your Life Expectancy
Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder caused by an airway blockage when lying down that leaves people gasping for air or choking in an attempt to open their airways again. These periods of breathing stoppages can last from a few seconds to a few minutes. During each one, your brain is deprived of adequate oxygen, which leads to your body releasing stress hormones that pose a risk to your overall health.
Over time, the increased stress and panic your body experiences from frequent breathing disruptions can severely affect your health. Research has indicated that untreated sleep apnea can shorten a person’s life expectancy by several years, and according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, untreated sleep apnea increases your risk of death by 17% through the short-term and long-term health issues associated with untreated sleep apnea.
Short-Term and Long-Term Health Issues from Untreated Sleep Apnea
Untreated sleep apnea creates multiple short-term and long-term health issues that can degrade a person’s quality of life. Short-term effects experienced by people with untreated OSA include excessive daytime sleepiness, interrupted sleep, reduced deep sleep, poor sleep quality, fatigue, and lack of concentration. When sleep apnea is left untreated, the short-term symptoms a person experiences can lead to chronic long-term issues, with some of these being experienced at much younger ages than is typical.
High blood pressure
Heart problems like irregular heart rhythm and heart failure
Cardiovascular diseases
Stroke
Type 2 Diabetes
Obesity
Cognitive issues like poor concentration and memory loss
Early-onset dementia
Each of these health conditions can decrease an individual’s life expectancy and have the potential to become chronic and debilitating, so it’s essential to be compliant and consistent with sleep apnea treatment. Effective sleep apnea treatment will help you avoid a decreased life expectancy caused by untreated sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Can Improve Health, Increase Life Expectancy, and Reduce Risks
When sleep apnea is left untreated, it decreases your life expectancy; however, treating your sleep apnea will increase your life expectancy and also reduce the risk of premature death, stroke, and other health conditions.
It’s extremely important to be compliant and consistent with your sleep apnea treatment plan to effectively manage the condition and improve your health.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Your treatment plan may include nonsurgical treatment options that might be a part of your treatment plan, including the use of oral appliances, nasal resistors, oropharyngeal exercises, positional therapy, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines.
CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are a known sleep apnea treatment option. Still, the effectiveness of a CPAP depends on using the machine consistently and correctly. Unfortunately, many people who try CPAP therapy may find compliance with their treatment challenging when they discover they struggle with using the machine, don’t like it, have a hard time adjusting to it, or cannot tolerate the mask or the noise.
2. Oral Appliances from a Sleep Apnea Dentist
Oral appliance therapy is a nonsurgical treatment, and a CPAP alternative is an effective sleep apnea treatment. An oral appliance or dental device for sleep apnea treatment is a specially fitted device custom-made by a dentist trained in sleep medicine. An oral appliance’s primary purpose is to keep the airway open during sleep so the normal airflow during breathing isn’t blocked. These dental devices look like a sports mouthguard or an orthodontic retainer but fit more comfortably. The most common oral appliances are mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue-retaining devices (TRDs).
Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are sophisticated devices designed to effectively combat obstructive sleep apnea. MADs called mandibular advancement splints, keep your airway unobstructed by gently moving your jaw forward.
Tongue-retaining devices, also known as tongue-stabilizing devices (TSDs), prevent the tongue from sliding to the back of the mouth and blocking the airway.
FDA-registered oral appliances can treat patients diagnosed with mild or moderate sleep apnea. A qualified dentist trained in dental sleep medicine will choose the right oral appliance for you based on factors such as the degree of snoring and mouth size. Oral appliances are an effective treatment option that can reduce your risk of sleep apnea-related strokes, and many people find oral appliances to be comfortable and relatively non-intrusive.
3. Lifestyle Changes to Treat Sleep Apnea
Lifestyle changes can help prevent and treat sleep apnea and are often used with other treatment options. Lifestyle changes can include:
avoiding alcohol and sedative medications before bedtime
frequent and increased physical exercise
changing your diet and physical activity routine
weight loss when indicated
Sleep Apnea Specialists Can Help You Manage Sleep Apnea Effectively to Decrease Health Risks and Increase Life Expectancy
The sleep apnea specialists at Sleep Better Columbus are committed to providing compassionate care for every patient and helping each patient find the best and most effective sleep apnea treatment for them. Consistency and compliance with sleep apnea treatment are crucial to effectively managing symptoms, decreasing health risks, and improving health.
We understand many patients may prefer alternatives to CPAP machines, and our sleep apnea therapy solution is simple and comfortable. It uses specially designed mouthpieces that will quickly help those with sleep-disordered breathing sleep better.
Call Sleep Better Columbus today at 614-777-7350 to learn more about how you can extend your sleep apnea life expectancy with non-invasive treatments.
Sleep Apnea Surgeries Have Multiple Potential Side Effects and Complications
All surgical procedures carry potential risks and possible complications, and this is no different for each type of sleep apnea surgery. The more invasive a sleep apnea surgery is, the higher the risk level for the sleep apnea patient. Thankfully, non-invasive sleep apnea treatment is possible.
Some of the side effects and complications from sleep apnea surgery depend upon the surgical procedure’s location. Sleep apnea surgeries that affect the soft tissues of your nose, mouth, throat, neck, or airway carry an increased risk for complications localized to those specific areas. At the same time, nerve stimulators, such as the Inspire system, have unique risks associated with the nerve-stimulating device’s location and potential malfunctions.
Surgical procedures require anesthesia, which is a concern for sleep apnea patients. Anesthesia, specifically general anesthesia, can be quite dangerous for patients who have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Using anesthesia is riskier when you have sleep apnea because the condition slows down breathing and can make you more susceptible to the effects of anesthesia. Additionally, sleep apnea can make it harder for patients to become conscious again and take a breath after surgery.
Risks Associated with Sleep Apnea Surgeries
There are several risks associated with surgery in general. Some of the risks associated with sleep apnea surgeries include, but are not limited to, the following:
excessive bleeding
blood clots
infection
new breathing problems
urinary retention
deep vein thrombosis (blood clots)
difficulties with swallowing
nerve injuries
an allergic reaction to the anesthesia
loss of sensation or feeling in the affected area
muscle weakness in the adjacent muscles
pulmonary embolism
injuries to your teeth, tongue, or soft palate
Additional Risks Associated with Surgically Implanted Sleep Apnea Treatment Devices
Surgically implanted sleep apnea treatment devices, like the Inspire system, carry additional risks. Risks related to the surgery itself include swelling, nausea, pain, headaches, infection, and temporary tongue weakness. In some cases, these issues take months to resolve and require medication.
Risks explicitly associated with a nerve-stimulating device that has been surgically implanted include:
mouth dryness
tongue abrasions
discomfort from stimulation
discomfort from the presence of the device
a potentially lengthy period of making adjustments to stimulator settings to alleviate or eliminate side effects from the device
another surgery is required if the device doesn’t work for you and needs to be removed.
Alternative and Complementary Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea Are Safer than Surgical Options
Several non-surgical sleep apnea treatment options can be used to treat obstructive sleep apnea. These alternative treatment options can be used alone or in combination and don’t have the potential downsides or risks that sleep apnea surgeries have. The sleep specialists at Sleep Better Columbus will work with you to find alternative sleep apnea treatments that work for you.
Alternative treatments can include lifestyle changes like avoiding alcohol and sedative medications before bedtime, quitting smoking, frequent and increased physical exercise, and weight loss when indicated.
Other nonsurgical and safer sleep apnea treatment alternatives include:
custom oral appliances (or dental devices)
different types of PAP (positive airway pressure) machines
Dental Devices Offer Sleep Apnea Patients a Safe and Effective Treatment Alternative to Sleep Apnea Surgeries
Oral appliance therapy is a nonsurgical treatment option that is an effective sleep apnea treatment for many people who have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Using a dental device or sleep apnea mouthpiece to treat sleep apnea is a safer treatment option and doesn’t carry the numerous risks associated with sleep apnea surgeries.
An oral appliance or dental device for sleep apnea treatment is a specially fitted device custom-made by a dentist trained in sleep medicine. An oral appliance’s primary purpose is to keep the airway open during sleep so the normal airflow during breathing isn’t blocked. These dental devices look like a sports mouthguard or an orthodontic retainer but fit more comfortably. The most common oral appliances are mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue-retaining devices (TRDs).
Mandibular advancement devices are sophistically designed to combat obstructive sleep apnea effectively. MADs called mandibular advancement splints, keep your airway unobstructed by gently moving your jaw forward.
Tongue-retaining devices, also known as tongue-stabilizing devices or TSDs, keep your tongue from sliding to the back of your mouth and blocking your airway.
Advantages of Using Dental Appliances to Treat Sleep Apnea
Using dental appliances to treat sleep apnea can also improve other symptoms like concentration issues, daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and moodiness. Custom-made oral appliances from a sleep apnea dentist are a popular and effective treatment option since they provide significant advantages and fewer risks compared to other sleep apnea treatments like breathing devices and surgeries.
Advantages of using custom-made dental devices from Sleep Better Columbus include:
Comfortable to wear
It is just as effective as other treatment options, including breathing devices and surgical options
Not as invasive as surgery
Not loud and noisy like breathing devices
Relatively nonintrusive
Compact and portable
Small and discreet
Require no recovery time
Less risky than sleep apnea surgery
Easier to take and use when traveling
Don’t require electricity
Convenient to use
Lower out-of-pocket costs
Sleep Apnea Specialists Can Help Treat Sleep Apnea without Surgery
The sleep apnea specialists at Sleep Better Columbus are committed to providing compassionate care for all patients and helping each one find the best sleep apnea treatment. We understand that many patients have concerns about sleep apnea treatment options and may prefer alternatives to CPAP machines and sleep apnea surgery.
Sleep Better Columbus’s sleep apnea therapy solution is a simple, comfortable solution that will help those with sleep-disordered breathing sleep better quickly. Specially designed mouthpieces provide an effective and comfortable sleep apnea treatment alternative without the associated risk of sleep apnea surgery.
To learn more about custom oral appliances to treat your sleep apnea without surgery, call the sleep disordered breathing experts at Sleep Better Columbus at 614-777-7350 or book an appointment online.
Millions of people have sleep apnea and use devices like continuous positive airway (CPAP) machines, bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines, ventilators, or oral appliances to treat their sleep apnea. When you rely on a device to help you breathe, it is highly concerning when it is recalled.
Recall of Philips Respironics Products in 2021
In June 2021, Philips voluntarily recalled many of its Respironics products used to treat sleep apnea. The recall included CPAP machines, BiPAP machines, and ventilators. These devices were recalled because of an issue with the sound-dampening foam inside them.
The Philips recall affected millions of sleep apnea patients, including many who used CPAP machines, BiPAP machines, or ventilators to treat their sleep apnea between 2009 and 2021. While Philips now uses a different sound-dampening foam in their Respironics products, their sleep apnea devices continue to be scrutinized and cause health concerns.
Philips Devices That Were Recalled
Philips recalled several continuous positive airway (CPAP) machines, bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines, and ventilators between 2009 and April 26, 2021. Recalled devices include:
A-Series BiPAP A30
A-Series BiPAP A40 (ventilator)
A-Series BiPAP Hybrid A30
A-Series BiPAP V30 Auto (ventilator)
C-Series ASV (ventilator)
C-Series S/T and AVAPS
DreamStation
DreamStation ASV
DreamStation Go
DreamStation ST, AVAPS
Dorma 400
Dorma 500
E30
Garbin Plus, Aeris, LifeVent (ventilator)
OmniLab Advanced+
REMstar SE Auto
SystemOne ASV4
SystemOne (Q-Series)
Trilogy 100 (ventilator)
Trilogy 200 (ventilator)
Additionally, Philips recalled specific models of Trilogy Evo ventilators distributed from April 15, 2021, to May 24, 2021, with specific serial numbers.
Why Were Philips Sleep Apnea Devices Recalled?
The recalled Philips Respironics continuous positive airway (CPAP) machines, bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines, and ventilators all had polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) foam inside them. This foam was used to reduce any noise and vibrations the machines generated.
Over time, the sound-dampening foam inside of the machines was likely to break down—mainly when sterilized with an ozone cleaner or exposed to heat and humidity—and release toxic chemicals and tiny particles that could travel through the air tubes of the sleep apnea devices and into sleep apnea patients’ lungs. Users of these devices have reported finding sticky residues or black dust inside their sleep apnea machines’ tubes, filters, and chambers.
Possible Health Risks Sleep Apnea Patients Can Experience from Recalled Devices
The toxic chemical vapors and small particles released by disintegrating PE-PUR foam inside Philips Respironics CPAPs, BiPAPs, and ventilators can harm sleep apnea patients. Documented health effects experienced by sleep apnea patients who used these devices to treat their sleep apnea include:
Asthma
Cancer of the sinuses, throat, esophagus, kidney, and liver
Chronic headaches
Coughing
Dizziness
Nausea and vomiting
Sinus congestion
Skin, nose, and eye irritation
Sore throat
Are There Effective CPAP Alternatives for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
You have options if you no longer feel comfortable using a CPAP, BiPAP, or ventilator from Philips or any other company after the recall.
Oral appliance therapy is an effective sleep apnea treatment for many people who have sleep apnea. An oral appliance is a specially fitted device custom-made by a dentist trained in sleep medicine. An oral appliance’s primary purpose is to keep the airway open during sleep so the normal airflow during breathing isn’t blocked.
Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue-retaining devices (TRDs) are two commonly used oral appliances for sleep apnea treatment. MADs keep your airway unobstructed by moving your jaw forward, and TRDs keep your tongue from sliding to the back of your mouth and blocking your airway.
A qualified dentist trained in dental sleep medicine will choose the right oral appliance for you based on factors such as mouth size and degree of snoring and create a custom-fitted appliance. Oral appliances are comfortable, relatively nonintrusive, and easily portable, and they can be appealing CPAP alternatives that make it easier for people to be compliant with their sleep apnea treatment.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy Over a CPAP, BiPAP, or Ventilator to Treat Sleep Apnea
Oral appliances offer an effective treatment option for people with sleep apnea who no longer feel comfortable using their CPAP, BiPAP, or ventilator after the Philips recall or have concerns about potential health and safety risks.
Benefits of oral appliances include:
more comfortable and easier to use than a CPAP, BiPAP, or ventilator
doesn’t require electricity to work
easy to take care of and keep clean
improves symptoms of OSA like focus issues and daytime sleepiness
more cost-effective than other treatments
no loud noise
portable and more accessible to take when traveling
reduces or eliminates snoring
Sleep Apnea Specialists in Columbus, Ohio
Sleep apnea is a severe condition, and the sleep apnea specialists at Sleep Better Columbus can help.
Sleep Better Columbus is committed to providing compassionate care for all patients and helping each patient find the best sleep apnea treatment for them.
Sleep Better Columbus’s sleep apnea therapy solution is simple and comfortable, helping those with sleep-disordered breathing sleep better quickly. Their specially designed mouthpieces are an effective and comfortable sleep apnea treatment alternative for those who no longer feel safe or comfortable using a CPAP, BiPAP, or ventilator after the Philips Respironics recall.
When you’re wrestling with night time interruptions from sleep apnea, finding the proper treatment can be life-changing.
The thought of using a cumbersome CPAP machine can be daunting, and that’s where exploring the use of a sleep apnea mouth guard comes into play.
These ingenious devices, tailored to alleviate the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, provide a more comfortable and less invasive option, ensuring a peaceful slumber without bulkiness.
We’ll explore the options available and guide you through choosing one that fits your needs seamlessly.
Keep reading to learn how a simple mouth guard from Sleep Better Columbus could be the key to treating sleep apnea and reclaiming your nights.
Understanding the Need for Sleep Apnea Mouth Guards
Addressing and treating your sleep apnea is essential for ensuring a healthy, restful sleep.
Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can range from minor symptoms like daytime fatigue to more serious health complications such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
When sleep apnea is left untreated, you will begin experiencing more severe health complications. If you struggle to use a CPAP or believe it’s not the right treatment option, a sleep apnea mouth guard might be your solution for Effective Sleep Apnea Therapy.
Exploring the Basics of Sleep Apnea and Its Dangers
Sleep apnea lurks unnoticed in many lives, a silent disruptor of restorative sleep. This sleep disorder forces your body to endure repetitive pauses in breathing, a condition that will lead to severe health issues if left untreated.
Awareness is the first defense against the creeping dangers of sleep apnea. The risk of heart complications, stroke, and even day-to-day challenges like excessive daytime sleepiness and concentration difficulties are real concerns that necessitate prompt attention:
Health Complication
Potential Consequence of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Cardiovascular Issues
Increased Risk of High Blood Pressure, Heart Attack
Stroke
Possible Due to Oxygen Deprivation
Day-to-Day Challenges
Impaired Cognitive Function, Drowsiness
Signs That You Might Need a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard
Recognizing that you might benefit from a sleep apnea mouth guard begins with listening to your body and observing changes in your typical rest patterns. Loud, chronic snoring paired with episodes where your breathing seems to stop or gasping for air during the night are clear signals that point toward obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where a mouth guard can come into play, offering a solution tailored to enhance airway stability.
Daytime signs of sleep apnea include constant morning headaches, sore throat or dry mouth upon waking, irritability, and exhaustion even after a whole night of sleep.
Types of Mouth Guards for Sleep Apnea Sufferers
All sleep apnea mouth guards are not created equal, and understanding the differences between over-the-counter (OTC) options and custom-fitted solutions provided by specialists like Sleep Better Columbus can help you decide which mouth guard would be the best choice for you.
Mandibular Advancement Splints (MADs) and Tongue Stabilizing Devices (TSDs) are effective treatment options for sleep apnea, but each works differently.
Examining the Difference Between OTC and Custom-Fit Options
Over-the-counter (OTC) mouth guards are readily available and often less expensive than custom-fitted solutions. Still, OTC models need a more precise fit, a custom-fitted option from a provider like Sleep Better Columbus can offer.
Custom-fitted mouth guards are more comfortable and effective in managing sleep apnea symptoms. Unlike generic OTC mouth guards, custom-fitted mouth guards are designed to conform perfectly to your dental structure after a careful assessment.
Reviewing Mandibular Advancement Devices and Tongue Stabilizing Devices
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) are sophistically designed to combat obstructive sleep apnea effectively and also referred to as a mandibular advancement splint, MADs operate by gently shifting the lower jaw forward, a subtle motion that maintains an open airway, thus curtailing the obstructive episodes that are symptomatic of the sleep apnea sleep disorder.
Tongue Stabilizing Devices (TSDs) are oral appliances that treat sleep apnea by holding the tongue in place, thereby mitigating the risk of airway blockage that can contribute to sleep interruptions.
How to Choose the Right Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard for You
Choosing the appropriate sleep apnea mouth guard is paramount to ensuring effective treatment and a comfortable night’s sleep that contributes to a better quality of life.
Evaluate factors like fit, comfort, and adjustability, and keep your specific diagnosis and unique breathing patterns in mind when selecting an oral appliance that will best fit your needs.
Evaluating Fit, Comfort, and Adjustability Features
A mouth guard’s effectiveness in treating sleep apnea is linked with its fit, which should be snug but not constrictive, ensuring it stays in place to perform its job without causing any discomfort.
Your mouth guard should feel comfortable enough to wear quickly for your sleep. Adjustable mouth guards will allow you to fine-tune the oral appliance to ensure ongoing comfort and efficacy and account for any subtle changes in your dental structure.
Considering Your Specific Diagnosis and Breathing Patterns
Diagnosing sleep apnea is a personal journey, and an intensive evaluation of your breathing patterns during sleep is vital. Not everyone will exhibit the same breathing patterns or severity. It’s critical to consider whether you’re contending with obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, or complex sleep apnea syndrome, as each type dictates a specialized approach to manage breathing disruptions effectively with an oral appliance.
The Proper Way to Use a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard
Understanding how to use the mouth guard correctly is as critical as the initial decision to adopt this therapy. Knowing how to use and care for your sleep apnea mouth guard properly will help you easily add your mouth guard to your nightly routine and maintain the longevity of your oral appliance.
Step-by-Step Instructions on Wearing Your Device Correctly
After you’ve decided to use a mouth guard to treat your sleep apnea, you’ll go through a fitting process with a sleep medicine healthcare provider who will then design your custom device. When you are ready for bed, you’ll insert your mouth guard in your mouth and press it against your upper and lower dental arches to ensure it fits snugly so it will work effectively.
Tips for Maintaining Hygiene and Longevity of Your Mouth Guard
Maintaining the hygiene of your sleep apnea mouth guard is an aspect of treatment that should always be considered. It ensures not only the effectiveness of the device but also secures your oral health. A good routine is to clean your mouth guard with cool water and a soft-bristle toothbrush every morning before placing it in its unique container; avoid any harsh chemicals or boiling water that could deform your oral appliance.
Maintenance Step
Reason
Frequency
Cleaning with cool water and a soft-bristle toothbrush
To remove bacteria and prevent oral health issues
Daily
Inspection for wear and tear
To ensure the device’s integrity and proper function
Understanding and treating sleep apnea with the appropriate mouth guard is essential for achieving restful sleep and maintaining overall health.
Paying attention to sleep apnea symptoms, such as chronic snoring and gasping for breath, is critical for prompt, timely intervention with devices like Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) or Tongue Stabilizing Devices (TSDs).
Proper use and maintenance of your sleep apnea mouth guard are critical for its effectiveness and oral health.
Mouth guards are an effective treatment option that can alleviate the impact of sleep apnea and allow you to enjoy the benefits of a peaceful night’s sleep.
To learn more about how you can get a custom sleep apnea mouthguard or to schedule your appointment, call Sleep Better Columbus at (614) 777-7350 or contact our sleep apnea experts online.
Sleep divorce, an unconventional concept where couples choose to sleep separately for a better night’s rest, is gaining traction. Recent studies suggest that one in three Americans are opting for this arrangement, particularly among couples dealing with conditions like sleep apnea and snoring.
Research indicates that when one bed partner experiences a sleep disorder or sleep-disordered breathing, it can have a detrimental impact on the other person’s sleep quality and overall well-being. The close proximity and shared sleeping environment can amplify the effects, highlighting the importance of addressing and seeking treatment for sleep-related issues to promote harmonious and restful sleep for both individuals involved.
Sleep Disordered Breathing and Its Impact on Relationships
Whilst a sleep divorce can provide relief from the noise and disruptions associated with certain sleep disorders, it also comes at a cost. The absence of physical contact while sleeping can create emotional distance between partners, potentially leading to feelings of isolation or loneliness.
When romantic partners sleep next to one another, their bodies release oxytocin and other chemicals known as the “cuddling hormones.” These hormones foster a sense of closeness between couples. Nevertheless, while these hormones play a significant role, they alone cannot offset the detrimental and long-lasting impacts of a lack of quality sleep.
A sleep divorce can also have detrimental impacts on relationships over time as feelings of resentment can surface, particularly if one partner feels like they are being forced or coerced into sleeping separately.
A Better Alternative to Sleep Divorce: Treating Sleep Apnea
Instead of resorting to a sleep divorce, couples can proactively take steps to address the underlying causes of their sleep-related issues. With the advancements in treatment options for sleep apnea and other related conditions, finding effective solutions has never been easier or more accessible.
The Impact of Sleep Apnea on Sleep Quality
Sleep apnea, particularly Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), is a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These disruptions can lead to poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and a host of other health complications.
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you or a loved one may be experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea. A proper diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve sleep quality and overall health. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance and support.
Snoring, a common symptom of OSA, can also disrupt a partner’s sleep, leading to frustration and strained relationships. In addition to snoring, people who suffer from sleep apnea often experience restless sleep, waking up gasping or choking, and twitches and jerks that not only disrupt their own sleep but their partner’s sleep as well.
The effects of sleep apnea don’t stop when the sufferer wakes up, however. Sleep apnea often results in excessive daytime sleepiness, irritability, moodiness, forgetfulness, headaches, and other physical and mental conditions that can lead to problems in the relationship or even outside the home at the workplace and in social situations.
These are other reasons why it is so important to seek sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment.
The Role of Sleep Specialists
Sleep apnea, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), can have serious effects on overall health, going beyond just disrupted sleep. Left untreated, OSA can lead to higher risks of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. By treating sleep apnea, you’re not only improving your sleep but also taking a significant step towards better overall health.
Professional sleep specialists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders like sleep apnea. A sleep apnea professional brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. They can provide a comprehensive understanding of your condition, helping you navigate the complexities of sleep apnea. From explaining the underlying causes of your specific form of sleep apnea to exploring how it impacts your overall health and daily life, they equip you with the necessary information to better manage your condition.
Additionally, they guide you through the plethora of treatment options, taking into account your personal needs, lifestyle, and preferences. This helps you make an informed decision about your treatment plan, ensuring it’s not only effective for addressing your sleep apnea but also sustainable in the long run. By collaborating with a sleep apnea specialist, you become an active participant in your healthcare journey, taking strategic steps towards improved sleep quality and overall health.
Navigating the World of Sleep Apnea Treatments
Treating obstructive sleep apnea can drastically improve sleep quality and relationship dynamics. Common solutions include:
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy: This involves using a machine to keep your airway open while you sleep. However, some partners find the noise from CPAP machines disruptive, contributing to the rise of sleep divorce.
Weight Loss: Obesity is a major risk factor for OSA. Losing weight can reduce the severity of sleep apnea symptoms.
Dietary Changes: Avoiding alcohol, sedatives, and certain foods before bedtime can help decrease episodes of sleep-disordered breathing.
Oral Appliances: These devices, worn in the mouth like orthodontic retainers or sports mouthguards, can be a quieter solution for treating sleep apnea. They adjust the position of your lower jaw and tongue to help keep your airways open while you sleep.
Ending Sleep Divorce Through Sleep Apnea Treatment
While sleep divorce may offer temporary relief from the lack of sleep caused by sleep-disordered breathing, it often doesn’t address the root cause and it could create emotional distance between partners.
Treating sleep apnea can help couples end their sleep divorce and return to sharing a bed. Treatment improves both sleep quality and relationship dynamics, making it a win-win situation for couples and everyone’s overall health. Improved sleep quality can lead to increased daytime alertness, improvements in mood, memory, and concentration, as well as enhanced relationship satisfaction.
Consult with a sleep specialist at Sleep Better Columbus to determine the most effective treatment option for your unique sleep apnea situation.
To learn more about sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment, contact the professionals at Sleep Better Columbus online or at (614) 777-7350 today for a consultation and take the first steps toward better sleep.
