What Do We Need to Know About Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

What Do We Need to Know About Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Oct 11, 2019

Did you know that 22 million people in the United States are living with some level of obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA? Are you one of them, or do you think you are? If you’re seeing the signs of OSA and are not being treated, you are putting yourself at risk of developing serious health conditions and may be shortening your lifespan inadvertently. You must seek treatment for the condition as soon as possible. Don’t worry; however, Millennium Smiles in Frisco, Texas, can help you get the treatment you need.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder caused when the muscles of the throat relax and fall into the airway, blocking it and interrupting your breathing. OSA can also happen if your lower jaw is set too far back, which can cause it to fall back and block the throat when you are asleep and relaxed.

So, Why Get Treated?

You may think the worst consequence of living with OSA is feeling fatigued. But, beyond just making you tired, sleep apnea puts you at risk for more serious health risks, too. These risks include:

  • A higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome and diabetes
  • Increased of cardiac conditions, such as heart attack, high blood pressure, and heart disease
  • A significantly higher chance of having a stroke
  • Increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and cognition problems
  • Mood swings
  • Depression

When Should You Get Help?

As we said above, you should get help as soon as you think you see signs of the disorder. Early signs of the condition include:

  • Loud snoring
  • Choking and/or gasping for air during sleep
  • Restless
  • Increased trips to the bathroom at night for urination
  • Mood swings
  • Daytime fatigue – despite “getting enough sleep”
  • Irritability
  • Frequent headaches

Who Should You See?

Dr. Korous! At Millennium Smiles, we have extensive experience in treating OSA and can help keep you healthy. We offer patients a sleep study, and after confirming your diagnosis, we can talk to you about your treatment options and our alternative to bulky CPAP machines.

Are you interested in getting treatment for your sleep apnea, or are you wondering if you have the condition? Give Millennium Smiles in Frisco, Texas, a call today to schedule an appointment at 972-468-8771.

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