Why So Many Patients Stop Using CPAP
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious medical condition that causes an obstruction in the airway, preventing you from breathing while sleeping. Common symptoms include loud snoring, waking up during the night, daytime fatigue, irritability, and more. If you’ve experienced any of these signs, it may be time to seek professional care.
The first line of defense for treating sleep apnea is a continuous positive airway pressure machine or a CPAP. Though it’s effective, many patients have stopped using it altogether because it’s loud, awkward, and uncomfortable.
Fortunately, Dr. Robert Bergida offers a more comfortable alternative to CPAP, a custom-made oral appliance. It works by gently repositioning the jaw to keep your airway open, allowing you to sleep comfortably every night. Dr. Bergida understands that each patient is different, which is why oral appliance therapy is individualized to your unique needs.
How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Overall Health
Not only does sleep apnea affect your quality of sleep, but it also takes a toll on your overall well-being. Those who suffer from sleep apnea experience a reduction of oxygen in the bloodstream. This makes you more susceptible to serious health conditions, such as strokes, heart disease, obesity, and more.
Sleep apnea has the ability to impair your memory, immune system, and ability to fulfill everyday tasks. Daytime fatigue and drowsiness caused by sleep apnea can result in serious accidents if operating machinery.
Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a dangerous disorder that causes you to completely stop breathing several times throughout the night as you sleep. This disturbs your sleep, leaving you feeling tired during the day. It also impacts the people around you.
The most obvious symptom of sleep apnea is snoring. If Dr. Bergida notices signs of sleep apnea, he may recommend a sleep test, which is the only way to get an accurate diagnosis. Then we’ll make sure you get the treatment that’s right for you. And if it turns out you’re not suffering from sleep apnea, we can still treat your snoring.
Commonly Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea
What Causes Airway Obstruction?
Patients who suffer from sleep apnea have an obstruction somewhere along the airway that’s caused by excess tissue. In many cases, the blockage occurs when your tongue falls back into your throat while you’re sleeping.
What Increases Your Risk of OSA?
Family history, diabetes, and weight are all factors that can increase your risk for OSA. When a person is overweight, it makes them more vulnerable to OSA by increasing pressure on the airway. Alcohol and tobacco use can also exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms.
Does My Snoring Mean I Have Sleep Apnea?
Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, but not all snorers suffer from the condition. If Dr. Bergida has reason to suspect that you have sleep apnea, he’ll recommend a sleep test. That’s the only way to get a reliable diagnosis.
Does CPAP Work for Everyone?
Although it’s a popular form of treatment, the CPAP machine is not the best option for everyone. Patients often experience difficulty wearing a mask over their face. They also find CPAP uncomfortable, hard to sleep with, and really inconvenient. If you’re currently using CPAP and you’d like to learn about your other options, contact Dr. Bergida.
Can Sleep Apnea Go Away Without Treatment?
Unfortunately, sleep apnea is a condition that tends to worsen over time. It’s unlikely to disappear without treatment. Being proactive and seeking a diagnosis and treatment is the best way to preserve your health now and in the future. There are certain lifestyle changes that can help relieve sleep apnea symptoms, however. Exercise, eating a healthier diet, losing weight, and refraining from smoking and drinking can also help reduce the severity of your symptoms.
What Will Happen If I Don’t Treat My Sleep Apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can have serious and even deadly consequences. Research links OSA to the following issues:
- High blood pressure
- Strokes
- Increased risk of heart attack
- Irregular heartbeat
- Heartburn
- Headaches
- Depression
- Decreased libido
- Irritability
Seeking treatment for your sleep apnea is vital to your health, both physical and mental. Don’t hesitate to call Dr. Bergida today.
Think You Suffer From Sleep Apnea?
Take our Sleep Apnea quiz to see if you’re experiencing sleep apnea symptoms.
Schedule Your Free Consultation With Dr. Bergida
Don’t let snoring or sleep apnea affect your life any longer. Dr. Bergida is here to help you find relief. Call (929) 335-7284 today to schedule your free consultation.