Snoring and Sleep Apnea Boulder CO
Procedures >> Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Snoring and Sleep Apnea:
Snoring is frequently dismissed as a harmless, yet annoying habit. However, it can be a sign of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a dangerous and potentially fatal condition.
How does Snoring or Sleep Apnea effect me?
Snoring itself can be loud enough to interrupt the sleep of the sufferer, as well as the bed partner. Snoring can often negatively affect relationships. Not only is the sleep disruption annoying, but it can lead to daytime fatigue, lack of focus, and memory problems. In extreme cases, unresolved snoring issues can result in the dissolution of relationships..
But the underlying cause of snoring may be a much more serious issue. Snoring occurs when the airway becomes partially blocked during sleep. In many cases, the body can still get adequate amounts of oxygen. In some cases, however, the airway can become completely blocked and an apneic event, or cessation of breathing occurs. Sleep apnea sufferers have rough nights, and they may not be aware it is happening. They are fighting for oxygen all night, and this can disrupt normal, healthy sleep patterns. As a result, they wake up feeling exhausted. They are prone to falling asleep during the day, (sometimes during driving!), and lack mental acuity. Common side effects of OSA include:
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If you snore, and would like to know if you also have sleep apnea, we can do a simple screening for you. Ultimately, a clinical sleep study can be done to determine the seriousness of one’s condition.Often, a CPAP mask and machine is recommended for patients with sleep apnea. This is a bulky device which delivers constant air pressure to the airway during sleep.
How do I stop my Snoring and Sleep apnea?
There is an alternative for those who choose not to wear the CPAP. A custom-made mouth guard can reposition the jaw to maintain an open airway throughout the night. Our office can make such a device, and we can track it’s effectiveness with a take-home monitor.
If you or someone you know suffers from snoring and possibly sleep apnea, please call our office for a complimentary consultation. Call 303-447- 9161 today.
