Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Wylie, Texas
Snoring occurs when soft tissues in the throat area relax during sleep, partially blocking airways and vibrating with the passage of air. However, snoring can indicate a more serious condition: sleep apnea, where individuals briefly stop breathing during sleep.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) - Caused by airway obstruction when throat muscles relax during sleep.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) - Occurs when your brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Complex Sleep Apnea - Combines both forms.
Symptoms
Symptoms include loud snoring, choking sounds, daytime drowsiness, morning headaches, and memory problems. Untreated sleep apnea increases risks for high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
Treatment Options
Treatment options vary by severity:
- Behavior modification like weight loss
- Custom oral appliances that advance the jaw
- CPAP machines delivering pressurized air
- Surgical procedures to remove obstructions
Consulting a sleep specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment helps achieve restorative sleep.
