Sleep Apnea / Snoring Problems
Calgary, Alberta
Sleep Apnea Defined
Snoring is a very common issue that disrupts the sleep of millions of people around the world. Spouses and loved ones of a person who snores often must just live with it. But a fact that people do not realize is that snoring may be a key indicator of a very serious medical condition known as sleep apnea. Sleep apnea affects many people and can contribute to very serious health issues. Unfortunately, most people with sleep apnea have no idea they have it.
Apnea is a Greek word that means want of breath. People with sleep apnea may stop breathing hundreds of times a night. During a relaxed state, as a person is sleeping on his back, the tongue and throat tissue move back into the throat. This creates a blockage of the airway. Eventually the unconscious person's body forces air from the lungs outward and this creates the disruptive snoring sounds.
If sleep apnea is not treated, the condition can lead to dramatically increased likelihoods of hypertension, muscular pain, debilitating headaches and lack of productivity due to drowsiness. Sleep apnea can also lead to heart attack, stroke, mood swings, decreased concentration and memory, depression, and anxiety.
While we cannot legally diagnose sleep apnea for you, we utilize the Watermark Ares home screening device to help us determine the best course of action for you.
This is just an overview of the myriad of problems associated with sleep apnea. It is important to remember that this is an affliction that creates more and more problems as time goes on.
There are treatments for sleep apnea, and because each case is different, Dr. Chee will perform a thorough evaluation of you before deciding on any treatment plan. Some treatment options are:
- Behavioral changes
- Oral appliances
- Surgery (in extreme cases)
- CPAP
For more information, see Treatment for Snoring.
Learn about the Snore Guard.
If you or a loved one has trouble sleeping, snore loudly, or experience any of the symptoms associated with sleep apnea, please contact Dr. Gordon Chee at Aesthetic Dental Studio in Calgary, Alberta today.
