Why Do I Wake Up Gasping for Air at Night?
Waking up suddenly gasping for air could be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that often goes undiagnosed. It affects millions of people and can have a serious impact on your health and quality of life.
If you wake up gasping for air, snore loudly, or have headaches in the morning, you might have sleep apnea. It’s important to talk to your dentist, like Dr. Sarkarzadeh at Rockville, about these symptoms.
Sleep apnea usually happens when the airway gets blocked while you sleep. This is caused by soft tissues in the back of your throat collapsing, making it hard to breathe. Your body reacts by waking you up, sometimes gasping for air. This can happen hundreds of times a night.
When you have sleep apnea, you don’t get a full, restful night of sleep. If left untreated, it can lead to bigger health problems, like heart attacks, high blood pressure, or strokes. You might also feel tired during the day, have trouble focusing, or get frequent headaches.
Treating Sleep Apnea in Rockville, MD
The most common treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP machine. However, many people find the CPAP uncomfortable and hard to use. That’s why Dr. Sarkarzadeh offers a different option for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea—oral appliances.
An oral appliance looks like a mouthguard and fits comfortably in your mouth. Unlike the bulky CPAP machine with its straps and masks, an oral appliance is easy to wear and transport. It works by moving your jaw and tongue slightly to keep your airway open while you sleep.
Many patients feel more rested and energetic after using an oral appliance. It helps stop snoring and improves mental clarity and mood during the day. Some patients even say their relationships improve because their partner can also sleep better without loud snoring.
At Congressional Dental Care, we’ve seen how these devices change lives. We’re dedicated to helping our patients get better sleep and improve their overall health.
An oral appliance is a simple, comfortable solution that many patients use every night. It helps lower the health risks linked to sleep apnea and can make a big difference in how you feel.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can affect anyone, but some people are at a higher risk. Men over 40, especially those with a larger neck size, are more likely to develop it. Obesity, diabetes, and a family history of sleep apnea also increase the chances.
If you notice changes in your sleep or oral health, or if you have any of the following symptoms, tell Dr. Sarkarzadeh at your next checkup:
- Feeling tired all the time
- Mood changes like depression or irritability
- Trouble focusing
- Frequent headaches
- Waking up gasping for air
- Loud snoring
If you notice any of these symptoms, call Congressional Dental Care at (301) 276-4694.
Sleep Apnea FAQs
What happens if sleep apnea is left untreated?
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues. It raises the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, and other heart problems. Getting treatment is important to avoid these conditions.
What is the best sleep position for sleep apnea?
Sleeping on your side, especially the right side, is best. This position keeps your airways open and promotes good blood flow. Using pillows to prop your head up can also help.
What foods can worsen sleep apnea?
Dairy products, especially high-fat ones, can make sleep apnea worse by increasing mucus, which can block airways. These foods can also cause weight gain, which can make sleep apnea symptoms worse.
How does sleep apnea affect life expectancy?
People with sleep apnea are at a higher risk of heart attacks. Those who have had sleep apnea for five years or more are 30% more likely to face life-threatening issues.
Will losing weight cure my sleep apnea?
Losing weight can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms by opening up airways, but it doesn’t always completely cure the condition. It can, however, make a big difference in improving symptoms.
Schedule A Sleep Apnea Exam Today
To learn more about sleep apnea and how it can affect your health, contact our Rockville, MD office or request an appointment online. We welcome new patients from Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Chevy Chase, Aspen Hill, Rollins Park, and nearby areas.