Sleep apnea is a common but serious condition that affects your breathing during sleep, and recognizing the signs of sleep apnea is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. Here’s what you should look out for.
1. Persistent Snoring and Gasping for Air
Loud, chronic snoring is one of the most common signs of sleep apnea. If snoring is paired with choking or gasping for air, it may indicate interrupted breathing. These pauses can occur multiple times during the night and often go unnoticed by the person affected.
2. Daytime Fatigue and Poor Sleep Quality
Feeling excessively tired during the day despite getting enough hours of sleep could signal sleep apnea. The repeated breathing interruptions prevent deep, restorative sleep, leaving you groggy and fatigued. You may also experience difficulty concentrating or increased irritability.
3. Waking Up with Dry Mouth or Headaches
Sleep apnea often causes dry mouth or morning headaches due to reduced oxygen levels and increased effort to breathe during sleep. These symptoms are easily overlooked but are important warning signs.
Why Recognizing Sleep Apnea Matters
Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. It can also affect your quality of life and increase the risk of accidents due to daytime drowsiness.
If you recognize these signs in yourself or a loved one, consult a healthcare professional. A proper diagnosis and treatment, such as CPAP therapy or oral appliances, can improve your health and sleep. Don’t ignore the signs—take action today for better rest and well-being. If you have seen your healthcare professional and they have recommended an oral appliance, give us a call for an appointment at 636-300-4280. Dr. Dejti has extensive training in treating sleep apnea, and he is a diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM) and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM).
From your Weldon Spring Dentist: Dr. D. Monticello Dental 😁
ADA Member serving Weldon Spring, O Fallon, St. Peters, Cottleville, St. Charles, Lake St. Louis, Chesterfield, Wentzville, and surrounding areas.