Sleep Apnea

According to researchers, around 30 million Americans live with sleep apnea, a serious medical condition that can cause numerous health issues. For those residing in or near Bellevue, Washington, Stephen Carstensen, DDS, Carrie Magnuson, DDS, and the team at Premier Sleep Associates offer a number of solutions. Book your visit today online or by phone to learn more. 

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition that causes you to wake many times throughout the night in order to attempt to take in sufficient air. While you may not fully wake during these events, they disrupt the sleep your body and brain need to thrive. 

Obstructive sleep apnea

By far the most common type, obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in your throat relax enough to block your airways during sleep and prevent you from moving air in and out of your lungs. 

Central sleep apnea

Far less common, this type of sleep apnea results from a communication problem between your brain and throat muscles. 

Complex sleep apnea

This condition is characterized by a combination of both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. 

Determining the type of sleep apnea you’re experiencing is the first step to find lasting relief. 

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

Knowing the signs of sleep apnea can help you decide when it’s time to take action. Some of the things to keep an eye out for include:

• Excessive sleepiness
• Waking with a dry mouth or sore throat
• Loud snoring
• Gasping for breath during sleep
• Irritability
• Difficult concentrating
• Insomnia
• Headaches

If you begin to notice these issues, coming in for a sleep apnea assessment is a great place to begin. 

Are there treatments that can help with sleep apnea?

For decades, the most common treatment for sleep apnea was an approach called continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This treatment relies on a machine that sits near your bed and a mask that covers your nose and mouth while you sleep. The device delivers a constant flow of air as you sleep, improving breathing to prevent you from waking. 

While CPAP can be an effective treatment, many people find the device uncomfortable and unwieldy. An alternative relies on custom-fitted oral appliances, which are comfortable devices you wear in your mouth as you sleep. 

These appliances slightly alter the way your lower jaw rests during sleep, improving airflow and helping you rest more easily. For many, oral appliances are the preferred solution to problems with sleep apnea. 

If you’d like more information, call to check appointment availability or schedule online in just a few clicks.