Do you have loved ones who comment on your loud and frequent snoring? Or do you find you have difficulty falling asleep and then wake throughout the night? If either of these scenarios sounds like something you regularly experience, you may be suffering from sleep apnea. Unfortunately, sleep apnea often remains undetected because people disregard their symptoms or don’t know who to see for a diagnosis. At Atlas Orofacial Pain & Apnea Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating patients who experience symptoms of sleep apnea.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a dangerous, chronic disorder in which a person stops breathing several times per hour while they sleep. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax during sleep, blocking the airway and restricting your breathing. Each time you stop breathing, due to a lack of oxygen, your brain is alerted to the disruption, causing you to wake up. People who experience sleep apnea often have very poor sleep habits and may experience symptoms such as:
- Trouble breathing
- Fatigue
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Acid reflux
- Headaches in the morning
- Waking with a dry mouth
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Irritability and difficulty focusing
Importance of Receiving Treatment
Quality sleep is imperative so we can function properly each day. During sleep, your body and mind reset and recharge. When you don’t get proper sleep, it can lead to dangerous situations, such as dozing off behind the wheel. Sleep apnea can also cause serious complications with your overall health. You may experience issues like:
- High blood pressure
- Weakened immune system
- Depression and anxiety
- Heart disease and heart attack
- Hypertension and stroke
If you are in Buffalo, NY or the surrounding area, and you believe that you or a loved one may be suffering from sleep apnea, we recommend calling our office to schedule an appointment. Untreated sleep apnea can be dangerous for your overall health, so we suggest being proactive with your care. We look forward to seeing you soon!
