Do you have trouble sleeping? Do you often find yourself waking up to breathe? You could have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition that occurs when the tissues found in airways relax and become smaller. The airway becomes blocked, and patients are momentarily unable to breathe, cutting oxygen off from vital organs. Problems like insomnia, headaches, and daytime fatigue can also arise when the airways are obstructed.
In the most severe cases, those with sleep apnea may suffer from a stroke, heart attack, or heart disease. Sleep apnea can be diagnosed and treated by Dr. Ali Sarkarzadeh at Congressional Dental Care in Rockville, MD. Dr. Sarkarzadeh works with local sleep specialists to diagnose and treat sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea Risk Factors
Anyone could develop sleep apnea; however, certain populations are at a higher risk. Male patients over the age of 40 are most likely to develop sleep apnea, especially if they have a larger neck circumference. Obesity, diabetes and a family history of obstructive sleep apnea are also common risk factors for developing the condition.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Common signs of sleep apnea may include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Depression
- Irritability
- Trouble concentrating
- Chronic headaches
- Loud snoring
If you notice any of the following symptoms, call Congressional Dental Care at (301) 276-4694.
Treating Sleep Apnea in Rockville, MD
Dr. Sarkarzadeh offers oral appliances as an alternative to the CPAP for patients diagnosed with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Oral appliances are comfortable, convenient and discreet. Most patients will use their oral appliance daily to help reduce the health risks associated with sleep apnea.
Oral appliances are designed to keep the airways open during sleep. The fit comfortably in the mouth and prevent snoring and other sleep apnea symptoms. Most patients will use their oral appliance nightly, the key to reducing the health risks associated with sleep apnea. Oral appliances act similarly to mouth guards in that they keep teeth from touching. They can also reposition and stabilize the lower jaw and tongue. This solution also increases the muscle tone of the tongue.