There are two main types of sleep apnea: central sleep apnea (CSA) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is when your breathing is blocked by tissues in your mouth and throat when you sleep. CSA is the kind that happens as a result of miscommunication between your brain and your breathing muscles, often as a result of a disease like heart failure or stroke or the use of opiods. Both kinds cause a shortage of oxygen while you sleep that can be harmful to your overall health.
Sleep apnea is dangerous because although the complications are serious, the condition itself often goes undetected. It increases your risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, and fatigue, and can also cause complications during surgical procedures involving general anesthesia.
Do you have Sleep Apnea?
You just might be a sufferer of OSA or CSA if you notice that you experience several of the following symptoms:
- Snoring (will not be an issue with CSA)
- Waking up frequently in the middle of the night, though you may not even be aware that this is happening
- A sore throat in the mornings
Obstructive sleep apnea worsens the quality of your sleep and can cause snoring that disturbs others.
- Waking up with a dry mouth
- Starting off your day with a headache
- Chronic fatigue and exhaustion throughout the day
- Impaired cognitive function during the daytime
- Mood changes
Treatment for Sleep Apnea by Dr. Tostado
Talk with your doctor if you’re wondering whether you have OSA or CSA. Your physician can provide you with a definitive diagnosis and let you know which treatment is best for your situation.
If you need an oral device to treat OSA, Dr. Tostado can provide that for you. He is a prosthodontist who makes sleep apnea appliances. These appliances are custom-fitted mouth guards that fit over the teeth and are connected by special bands. Pressure from the bands prevents your jaw from sliding back and closing off your airways when you sleep.
While your doctor can give you that definitive sleep apnea diagnosis, Dr. Tostado can check your dental health and alert you to possible signs that you suffer from this condition.
Snoring
If you just have a snoring problem that doesn’t rise to the level of sleep apnea, one of these appliances can be a wonderful solution that will be greatly appreciated by your partner.
Call us or fill out the Request an Appointment form if you’d like to learn more about OSA treatment.