Sleep Disorders

Dentist Serving Calgary, Cochrane, Airdrie and Nearby Areas of Alberta

Sleep Apnea Risk Factors

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, one in four Canadian adults is at high risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. If you’re high-risk or already exhibiting signs of sleep apnea, it’s imperative to seek professional help as soon as possible.

Apnea is diagnosed through a process known as a sleep study. Though at-home testing options are available, most sleep studies are performed at a sleep clinic outfitted with equipment for assessing a sleeping patient’s breathing, heart rate, blood oxygen content and more.

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Is Snoring the Same as Sleep Apnea?

No, snoring is not necessarily the same as sleep apnea. Most people with sleep apnea snore, but not all people who snore have sleep apnea.

If you are concerned your snoring is a sign of sleep apnea, you should contact your physician as soon as possible. Sleep apnea can have serious effects on your health and can make it impossible to get the rest your body and brain need. Only a sleep doctor can determine whether you have sleep apnea.

Snoring can be caused by a number of things including:

What are my Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea?

The three main ways of treating sleep apnea are:

  • Nighttime dental appliance
  • CPAP machine
  • Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes that may alleviate your snoring problems and sleep apnea include:

  • Losing weight
  • Quitting smoking
  • Avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bed
  • Increasing physical activity

Dental appliances can be an effective treatment for snoring, as well as mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea.

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