Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder. It causes you to repeatedly stop and start breathing while you sleep.
There are several types of sleep apnea, but the most common is obstructive sleep apnea. This type of apnea occurs when your throat muscles intermittently relax and block your airway during sleep. A noticeable sign of obstructive sleep apnea is snoring. Some other signs and symptoms include:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Loud snoring
- Observed episodes of stopped breathing during sleep
- Abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking
- Awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Morning headache
- Difficulty concentrating during the day
- Mood changes, such as depression or irritability
- High blood pressure
- Decreased libido
Treatment Options
The most common treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP mask. This mask works to open the airways as you sleep. However, many patients are finding success in the use of an oral appliance. This appliance keeps anything from obstructing your airways while you sleep as well as position your jaw forward to help you breathe better at night. If you need help with sleep apnea, Dr. Lingam can evaluate you, find out your symptoms, and recommend the best possible care to help you get a better night of sleep.