Sleep Apnea Treatment Specialist in Copperfield Houston, Cinco Ranch Katy, Magnolia, Katy, FM Spring, Spring, and Montgomery TX

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where an individual’s breathing stops and starts intermittently as they sleep. This condition can cause a wide range of disruptions, including interrupting the ability to have a good night’s sleep, which leads to adverse health outcomes and serious concerns.

Individuals who feel tired after a full night’s sleep or snore loudly may be experiencing sleep apnea. There are different types of sleep apnea, affecting individuals in different ways. Obstructive sleep apnea is a common form where throat muscles relax and block airflow into the lungs. Another type is central sleep apnea, which results from issues with brain signals reaching the muscles responsible for breathing.

Treatment-emergent central sleep apnea occurs when someone experiences central sleep apnea while being treated for obstructive sleep apnea.

A good night’s sleep is essential for all aspects of physical and mental health, and untreated sleep apnea can lead to various other concerns.

Various symptoms are associated with sleep apnea, and they can present differently depending on the type of sleep apnea an individual has. Most forms of sleep apnea are primarily characterized by stopping and starting breathing while an individual sleeps. People may wake up briefly to breathe, preventing restful and healthy sleep.

This frequent stopping, starting, and waking up puts stress on the heart and can have wide-ranging adverse consequences. Individuals with sleep apnea may feel tired even after a full night’s sleep, leading to drowsiness and daytime sleepiness, which can be disruptive or dangerous in extreme cases.

Snoring is often associated with sleep apnea, but it is not always present. Individuals might experience trouble concentrating, memory loss, anxiety, depression, and other mood changes. They may notice unusual breathing patterns during sleep, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, headaches, restlessness, or night sweats.

Some people wake up feeling short of breath or as if they are choking. These symptoms can vary and sometimes be hard to detect. If an individual suspects they have sleep apnea, they should seek treatment to manage the condition effectively.

Sleep apnea is a fairly common medical condition. Some studies indicate it may affect as many as 20% of the population, though these figures can vary. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea, which is characterized by stopping and starting breathing due to the throat muscles relaxing and blocking the airway. The likelihood of sleep apnea can be influenced by various risk factors, although it can develop in anyone.

Overweight individuals tend to be more susceptible because fat deposits around the airways can interfere with breathing. People with a narrowed airway due to hereditary factors, those who smoke, have diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, or a family history of sleep apnea, are at higher risk as well. Age can also increase susceptibility to obstructive sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea can affect the body in various adverse ways. Beyond making individuals feel fatigued or sleepy, it puts stress on the body and increases the risks of health problems associated with poor sleep. It can lead to long-term health risks, including heart disease, diabetes, and more, particularly when left untreated.

Sleep apnea can worsen the respiratory system, aggravating conditions such as asthma. It also increases the likelihood of developing insulin resistance, raising blood sugar levels, and increasing the risk of diabetes. The disorder can worsen the digestive system, leading to heartburn and other conditions that further disrupt sleep.

The strain on the heart can lead to abnormal heart rhythms and cardiovascular problems. Central sleep apnea can cause nervous system concerns. It can also affect the reproductive system, contributing to erectile dysfunction in men and reducing sex drive in individuals of all sexes.

Additionally, sleep apnea can contribute to the onset of various oral health problems like bruxism, TMJ disorders, and mouth breathing, while dental problems can also cause sleep apnea in other cases. Sleep apnea can disrupt almost every bodily function. Individuals experiencing symptoms should seek treatment to manage sleep apnea, minimize complications, and maintain a healthy life.

Sleep apnea, characterized by stopping and starting breathing while sleeping, can present differently depending on the type. Gentle Dental Care offers sleep apnea treatment, which can help individuals manage their symptoms. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Copperfield Houston TX, Cinco Ranch Katy TX, Magnolia TX, Katy TX, FM Spring TX, Spring TX, Montgomery TX, Westlake TX, Kelliwood TX, Copper Lakes TX, Brenwood TX, The Woodlands TX, Rayford TX, Pine Hurst TX, Egypt TX, Dobbin TX, Conroe TX, Louetta TX, Kohrville TX, Four Corners TX, Howellville TX, and surrounding areas.