Snoring caused by sleep apnea is a condition that affects millions of Americans each year. It occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep due to excessive relaxation of the muscles in the back of the throat. This blockage restricts oxygen intake, prompting your body to wake you up just enough to take a deep breath. In some cases, this can happen hundreds of times throughout the night without the person being aware of it. As a result, you may feel fatigued despite having a full night's rest, and this condition can lead to more serious health issues such as heart problems or stroke.
For many people, it’s their partner who first notices the disrupted sleep patterns. However, there are some symptoms that could indicate sleep apnea, which you may recognize yourself. If you experience any of the following, it may be worth getting checked for sleep apnea:
- Loud or interrupted snoring
- Sudden waking during the night
- Waking up gasping for air
- Feeling fatigued despite a full night’s sleep
- Morning headaches
For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, Dr. Ommar can create a custom mandibular advancement dental appliance, similar to a mouth guard, to be worn during sleep. This device works by gently shifting your jaw forward to open the airway. It is an excellent option for those who find it difficult to tolerate a CPAP machine.