San Ramon Cosmetic Dentistry Blog | Sean Michael Anderson, D.D.S.

A chronic sleeping disorder in which you stop breathing for ten seconds or longer, sleep apnea can occur up to 50 times an hour while you sleep creating serious problems. When you stop breathing during sleep, your normal sleep cycle is interrupted, which can result in drastic changes in mood, weight, and blood pressure, and can even lead to diabetes and death. Experts agree that a good night's sleep is vital for a healthy, active lifestyle. Sleep apnea disrupts healthy, restful sleep, in turn disrupting your ability to fully enjoy your life.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Symptoms of sleep apnea you may notice include:

• Fatigue during the day
• Waking up tired
• Frequent headaches
• Irritability

You may not notice all of the symptoms of sleep apnea since many of them occur while you are asleep. If you wake up tired, have frequent headaches, or feel fatigued during the day, you may ask a family member to check and see if you:

• Stop breathing for extended periods of time in your sleep
• Choke, or gasp loudly while sleeping
• Snore loudly
• Appear restless

Sleep apnea can often be treated with simple lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, or losing weight. In some instances, medical intervention is necessary. Mouthpieces, breathing devices, and some surgeries can all help correct sleep apnea, restoring your sleep, and providing you with a better rested, more satisfying life.

If you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea, and live in San Ramon, Danville, or Livermore, California, please contact experienced sleep apnea dentist, Dr. Sean Anderson for a free consultation and review of your treatment options.