Snoring and sleeping; they’re both part of life, right? When you think about it, you almost certainly know at least a few people who snore and since snoring is so common, rarely do people see it as a condition that requires medical assistance. In many cases, snoring is a problem caused by certain behavioral or bodily conditions. For example, those who are back-sleepers are more prone to snoring. People who suffer from constant respiratory infections or conditions, such as asthma, are also prone to snoring. In these cases, snoring is not a large worry. However, when snoring is accompanied by restlessness, daytime drowsiness, morning headaches, and other symptoms that do not seem to go away, medical and/or dental intervention is often needed.
Even though snoring is sometimes harmless, snoring can also be a big sign that one may be suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a disorder that can affect anyone, no matter their health, age, race, or gender. Take Shaquelle O’Neal for instance.
Shaq isn’t someone who we’d put into the unhealthy category, right? Recently Shaq’s girlfriend realized that not only was he constantly snoring at night, but there were times when he’d go completely silent. During these silent spells Shaq wasn’t breathing at all! The symptoms alarmed his girlfriend who then pushed Shaq to visit a local sleep lab. After undergoing testing Shaq was diagnosed with sleep apnea and his constant snoring is what led to his diagnosis.
Patients who suffer from the common symptoms of sleep apnea should definitely consult a sleep physician and/or a sleep lab. Seeking help from a sleep physician is the best way to determine whether or not you are a sleep apneic. If you are found to suffer from sleep apnea, Dr. Dunayer is your go-to dentist for help with choosing the best sleep apnea treatment for you. When it comes to treating sleep apnea, there is a variety of methods that can be used to ensure that treatment is effective, efficient, and one that fits your lifestyle. Contact our dental office today to discuss the options available to you to help control your sleep apnea.
