Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last for several seconds and occur multiple times throughout the night, leading to disrupted sleep and potential health complications.
Why treat sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can pose significant risks to overall health. Some of the most common complications include:
- High blood pressure: Frequent drops in blood oxygen levels can strain the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of hypertension.
- Heart disease: Sleep apnea is linked to an increased risk of irregular heartbeats, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular conditions.
- Stroke: The condition may contribute to stroke due to reduced oxygen flow to the brain.
- Daytime fatigue: Repeated awakenings during the night can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness, which can impair work performance, concentration, and increase the risk of accidents.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Many individuals with sleep apnea may not realize they have it, but symptoms often include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
- Restless sleep, tossing and turning
- Night sweats
- Waking up with headaches
- Teeth grinding (bruxism), generalized clenching, and tooth erosion
- Daytime drowsiness and difficulty concentrating
Types of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
This is the most common type and occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, causing a blockage in the airway. Symptoms include loud snoring, frequent awakenings, gasping for air, and extreme daytime fatigue.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
Unlike OSA, CSA is caused by the brain failing to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. This leads to irregular breathing patterns and pauses in breathing. CSA is less common but can be associated with conditions such as heart failure or neurological disorders.
Mixed Sleep Apnea
A combination of both OSA and CSA, this condition involves both physical airway blockage and a failure in the brain's respiratory signaling, making treatment more complex.
Our Approach to Sleep Apnea Treatment
Dr. Chegini and our team in Redding, CA, take a comprehensive approach to evaluating and treating sleep apnea. Our process includes:
- • Sleep disorder evaluation: Understanding the patient's sleep history and symptoms. • Intraoral examination: Checking for oral manifestations such as tooth wear from grinding, exostosis, a large tongue, or other anatomical factors that could contribute to airway obstruction. • Mallampati classification assessment: Evaluating airway obstruction by inspecting the throat and oral cavity. • Medical history review: Identifying conditions such as high blood pressure and medications that may influence sleep apnea.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy
CPAP therapy is a common treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea. It delivers a continuous stream of air through a mask to keep the airway open throughout the night.
Oral Appliance Therapy
For patients who cannot tolerate CPAP or have mild to moderate sleep apnea, a custom-fitted oral appliance may be an effective alternative. These devices reposition the jaw and tongue to help keep the airway open during sleep.
Expert Care You Can Trust
Dr. Chegini has extensive experience treating sleep apnea patients, including working with diagnosed individuals at the VA. She remains committed to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest scientific advancements in sleep medicine. If you suspect you have sleep apnea or have already been diagnosed, our team in Redding, CA, is here to help you achieve better sleep and improved overall health.