How Do I Know if I Have Sleep Apnea?

Many people suffer from the side effects of sleep apnea, but do not necessarily know why the symptoms occur. Severe fatigue, headaches, and snoring are just a few signs that point towards having sleep apnea. If you show any of the following signs and do not understand why, you may want to consider getting checked by a specialist to help you finally achieve a good night’s sleep.

Understanding How Sleep Apnea Works

Sleep apnea is a condition that prevents patients from falling into a deep sleep and achieving a full-nights rest. Through one way or another, the passageway that allows a person to breath is blocked, preventing oxygen from entering the body and causing several system-related side effects.

In addition to interrupted sleep, sleep apnea may contribute to a greater risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Signs You Have Sleep Apnea

While many patients suffer from sleep apnea, a large portion of that population do not even know they have it. The following signs can be directly linked to sleep apnea:

Loud Snoring – most people that have sleep apnea will noticeably snore, making it an easy red flag for patients suffering from additional symptoms as well.

Pauses in breathing during sleep – Due to the lack of oxygen to the body, the brain wakes itself up in order to restart its respiratory system and begin breathing again.

Excessive Fatigue – Failing to receive a full-night’s sleep, which is anywhere between 7 to 9 hours of uninterrupted sleep, results in drowsiness that prevents the body from functioning optimally.

Additionally, sleep apnea may cause headaches and high-blood pressure in patients. If multiple signs persist, patients may want to speak with a specialist and receive an examination to determine if the condition exist. Once diagnosed, a proper specialist can assist in fitting a dental appliance and helping patients to achieve normal breathing patterns during sleep.

Find Out More!

Check with Dr. Lynn to receive a Sleep Apnea test to determine whether or not you require treatment. For more information about sleep apnea or to schedule a consultation with a Sleep Apnea specialist from Austin Park Dental, call or visit our office in Barberton.