If you are a person who snores loudly, you probably have someone in your life who has told you about it. Most of the time, you don’t know that you snore unless someone has heard you. And if someone has heard you and then told you about it, they probably joked about it at first, but have become more irritated over time about the loud, grinding, gargling noises that come from your mouth when they are trying to sleep.
You might be thinking, “So I snore, big deal; doesn’t everybody?” Not necessarily. Only about 45% of adults snore regularly or on occasion, but 75% of those snorers have a condition called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).
You may have heard of OSA but are unsure what it is. It is a condition that disrupts the breathing during short periods while you sleep. And the main problem with those who have sleep apnea is that it can lead to heart disease.
But just because you snore, it doesn’t mean that you have sleep apnea. Other signs to be on the lookout for include:
- Waking up with a headache
- Insomnia or trouble staying asleep
- Extreme sleepiness during waking periods
- Difficulty paying attention
- Irritability
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Periods during sleep when breathing stops
If you experience any of these symptoms, consider seeing your doctor to find out if you have sleep apnea. Not only is it causing problems for your health, but it can be causing problems for others who are kept awake at night due to your snoring. Worse yet, it could lead to problems in your relationship if your partner has to move into another room to get some shut-eye.
Devices To Help
Fortunately, there are several appliances available today that can help you rest easy and breathe regularly while you sleep. The downside is, many of these appliances involve masks that cover the face and tubes and bands that wrap around the head. They can be uncomfortable and difficult to get used to. Some people even have such a tough time adjusting that they don’t bother with the device, which puts them right back at square one.
If you have been diagnosed with OSA that is mild or moderate, at Shine Dental Associates, we just might be able to help you. We offer custom made oral appliances that fit into your mouth while you sleep; no masks required. These oral devices are made to reposition your tongue so that your airways remain open to ensure proper breathing. You’ll get a comfortable, good night’s sleep for the first time in maybe a long time. And your partner will thank you.
Call us today to set up an appointment to find out if an oral appliance will work for you. You’ve got nothing to lose but a loud snore and a restless night.
