26
Aug
Can Lifestyle Changes Minimize Obstructive Sleep Apnea Symptoms?
Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder where you stop breathing temporarily while you sleep. These pauses in your breathing happen repeatedly all night long, disrupting your sleep. As a result, you feel drowsy and fatigued the next day. At Arden Park Dental Care in Sacramento, California, we offer various options for obstructive sleep apnea treatment, including lifestyle changes that can help minimize your symptoms. Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli provides greater insight into sleep apnea causes, symptoms, and treatment through these FAQs.
What are the different types of sleep apnea?
There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea. OSA is caused by throat muscles collapsing while you sleep, blocking your airways and impairing your breathing. CSA occurs when your brain fails to signal your muscles to breathe. Complex sleep apnea is a mix of the two.
What factors put you at risk of obstructive sleep apnea?
You’re at greater risk of developing this condition if you:
- Are overweight.
- Take certain medications or use sedatives to help you sleep.
- Have enlarged tonsils, a narrow jaw, or a large neck.
- Smoke or drink excessively.
What are some common symptoms of sleep apnea?
Loud snoring, frequent pauses in breathing and waking up frequently gasping for breath are common sleep apnea symptoms that can impair your sleep. Impaired sleep can cause daytime drowsiness, tiredness, morning headaches and inability to focus or concentrate on daily tasks.
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Left untreated, what complications can sleep apnea lead to?
Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to anxiety, depression, and chronic fatigue. Severe sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart problems, stroke, and other health issues. An evaluation by Dr. Formoli can determine if you have sleep apnea so you can get help in managing your condition.
Can lifestyle changes minimize the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea?
Certain lifestyle habits can contribute to developing obstructive sleep apnea or aggravating its symptoms. By changing these habits, you can minimize the impact of OSA on your life. Losing excess weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcoholic drinks before bedtime can keep sleep apnea symptoms to a minimum. It also helps to avoid using sedatives for sleeping. If you suffer from asthma or allergies, nasal sprays or allergy treatments can improve your breathing. Changing from sleeping on your back to your side can also help keep your airways open so you can get the rest you need.  Â
What other options do I have for treating sleep apnea?
Depending on the severity of your condition, Dr. Formoli may recommend using a CPAP machine or an oral appliance to improve your breathing so you can sleep soundly and get the rest you need. As a last resort, jaw surgery may be needed. Â
Where can I find a knowledgeable sleep apnea dentist near me?
If you live in or near Sacramento, CA, you can contact Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli from Arden Park Dental Care at (916) 280-0988 for sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment.
