Recognize the signs of sleep apnea and seek treatment in San Francisco
Snoring, also called simple or primary snoring, is characterized by loud sounds caused by the vibration of soft tissues in the airway during sleep. However, when snoring is intermittently broken by pauses or more shallow breathing, it is a strong indication that the sleeper is suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common, but serious condition that is often dismissed as natural snoring. Dr. Leo Arellano and his dental team provide comfortable diagnosis and treatment for this condition in his office in San Francisco.
It is important to recognize the signs of sleep apnea and seek treatment, as this condition has been associated with numerous serious health concerns. Common signs of obstructive sleep apnea include:
- Loud, chronic snoring interrupted by pauses in breathing lasting 10 seconds or longer, usually followed by choking or gasping
- Daytime fatigue or drowsiness sometimes marked by micro-naps at the computer screen, TV, or even at a stop light
- Insomnia or restlessness while sleeping
- Suddenly waking with a sense of breathlessness
- Morning dry mouth or sore throat
- Frequent headaches
- Irritability
- Lack of libido or sexual dysfunction
- Personality changes, irritability, depression
- Difficulty concentrating or learning
- Night sweats
- Frequently getting up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom
It is important to note that not everyone who suffers from OSA snores, but those who frequently exhibit one or more of the above symptoms should seek professional diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the common factors that put patients at a higher risk for obstructive sleep apnea include:
- Overweight – fat deposits around the airway can obstruct breathing
- Large neck circumference – Those who have thicker necks may have a smaller airway
- A narrow airway – Enlarged adenoids or tonsils, or a narrow throat can restrict breathing
- Gender – Males have double the risk of OSA
- Age – OSA occurrence is significantly higher in those over 60
- Heredity – OSA tends to run in families
- Use of sedatives – tranquilizers and alcohol relax throat muscles
- Smoking – Smokers have triple the risk of developing OSA
In his San Francisco office, Dr. Leo Arellano offers lifestyle guidance and comfortable oral appliance therapy to help treat obstructive sleep apnea. Call 415-881-4343 today to schedule an appointment.
