19 Jan Do I Have Sleep Apnea if I Snore?
Snoring occurs in many people for a multitude of reasons. Snoring is basically the vibrating of tissues made while breathing. For most, this is harmless (except for sleeping partners who may lose hours of sleep themselves due to the interruption); however, patients suffering from sleep apnea literally stop breathing many times during sleep. One of the symptoms of sleep apnea is snoring.
It is important to note that snoring does not mean the individual has sleep apnea. Snoring can be the result of allergies or sinus conditions that reduce the nasal passage leading to mouth breathing. Enlarged tonsils, a soft palate, or large uvula can increase the vibration of tissues (louder snoring sound).
Relaxed muscles at the back of the throat or the tongue narrow the breathing airway. This action can actually close the airway enough for the individual to stop breathing. The problem can be exasperated with certain medications or alcohol consumption. Many patients mistakenly believe that the things taken to help them relax that might lead to a restful night’s sleep are doing more harm than good.
Often a partner may catch on to the symptoms of sleep apnea before the patient. If abrupt awakening with a coughing or snorting sound is occurring frequently, this may be a sign it is time to check into this further. Daily fatigue is a problem due to interrupted sleep. A great place to start to seek a solution is with our dentist.
No matter the reason snoring is occurring you may experience relief with the SomnoDent MAS™ which is an oral snoring appliance that fits over the upper and lower teeth. This appliance looks like a standard mouth guard, however unlike a sports mouth guard, it is a precision-made, clinically tested medical device.
How can a mouth guard prevent sleep apnea? When the soft oral tissues in the back of the mouth and throat relax, the vibration occurs that results in snoring or with sleep apnea, halts breathing by blocking the airway.
The mouth guard positions the jaw to prevent the collapse of oral tissues. Considered a good option for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, our dentist can provide a solution for snoring. Also avoid alcohol and medications aimed at muscle relaxation.
You and your partner may finally be able to enjoy a quality night’s sleep with SomnoDent MAS™!
To learn more about sleep apnea and possible treatment options, contact the office of Dr. Philip Kozlow today.