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Midwest Sleep Center

Sleep Apnea

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder where people pause from breathing while sleeping. A study shows that obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) predominantly affects 26% of individuals between 30 and 70 years of age in the US. If left untreated, sleep apnea can cause more complex health problems such as hypertension, stroke, and arrhythmias.

Types of Sleep Apnea

Types of Sleep Apnea

The three main types of sleep apnea are:

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea: It is the most common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when your throat muscles relax and block your airways during sleep. A major symptom of sleep apnea is snoring.
  • Central Sleep Apnea: This type of sleep apnea is caused when your brain cannot send the required signals to your lungs, which are needed for peaceful sleep. It happens due to congestion in your respiratory control center.
  • Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: This occurs when someone is experiencing the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea together.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

There are several causes of sleep apnea, but the most common causes are:

  • Obesity
  • Nasal congestion
  • Neurological issues
  • Thick tissues
  • Airways surrounded by fats
  • Lax muscle
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea symptoms may vary from person to person. These include:

  • Loud snoring
  • Fatigue
  • Heartburn
  • Morning headache
  • Hypersomnia
  • Insomnia
  • Lack of concentration
  • Breathing issues
  • Nightmares
  • Feeling lost after waking up

Who Is Most at Risk for Sleep Apnea?

According to an NCBI report, around 3-7 percent of men and 2-4 percent of women are affected. Here is the list of people who are prone to sleep apnea.

  • People who are obese
  • People with thicker necks
  • Older adults
  • Women with menopause
  • People who have a family history of sleep apnea
  • People who consume excess alcohol
  • Pregnant women
  • People infected with allergies
  • People with a smoking habit
  • People with heart disease
Available Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Available Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea treatment aims to stabilize the breathing disorder or any underlying primary health problem. A CPAP (Continuous positive airway pressure) machine is the most common treatment for sleep apnea and it helps maintain a steady air pressure to send ample oxygen to your lungs while you sleep.

However, it can be very uncomfortable for people to sleep with a loud machine and with a device on their face. Oral appliances are a great alternative to CPAP machines and can be customized to the individual patient’s needs. The appliance will position your tongue so it does not block your airway so you can get a peaceful night’s sleep.

Why Choose Midwest Sleep Center for Sleep Apnea Treatment

Healthy eating is necessary for healthy living. Similarly, quality sleep is essential for a better life. As mentioned earlier, many patients do not want CPAP therapy because it is uncomfortable and inconvenient.

Our team at Midwest Sleep Center is committed to providing a personalized alternative to CPAP machines through oral appliances. Our expert sleep dentist, Dr. Goetz, will provide a thorough consultation and treatment options, so you can get a peaceful night’s sleep. Why wait? Contact us today to address your sleep apnea!

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