Recognizing the Signs of Sleep Apnea in Nashua, NH
Sleep apnea, a common but serious sleep disorder, affects millions of Americans. It disrupts breathing during sleep, reducing oxygen levels and leading to fragmented rest. If you experience persistent symptoms or have certain risk factors, it may be time to consult a sleep specialist.
At the Center for Dental Sleep Health, our Nashua, NH, sleep dentist, Dr. Stephen Ura, can help identify and address your sleep concerns. Read on to discover key signs it’s time to seek professional care. Call our Nashua sleep clinic at (603) 237-1124 to schedule your appointment today.
Top Signs You Need to See a Sleep Specialist
1. Loud, Persistent Snoring
Loud snoring is one of the most noticeable signs of sleep apnea. It often occurs due to relaxed throat muscles blocking the airway. If your snoring disrupts your partner’s sleep or persists regardless of position, it’s worth investigating.
2. Gasping or Choking During Sleep
Episodes of gasping, choking, or silent breathing pauses during sleep are classic sleep apnea symptoms. These interruptions, which can last 10 seconds or more, force the brain to restart breathing, disrupting restful sleep.
3. Daytime Fatigue and Drowsiness
Excessive daytime sleepiness is a hallmark symptom of sleep apnea. Despite sleeping seven to eight hours, people with sleep apnea often feel drained because the condition prevents deep, restorative sleep stages.
4. Morning Headaches
Frequent morning headaches may indicate oxygen deprivation and sleep fragmentation caused by untreated sleep apnea. These headaches typically subside after being upright for a few hours.
5. Trouble Concentrating and Mood Changes
Difficulty focusing, memory lapses, anxiety, and irritability can result from chronic sleep apnea. The disrupted sleep and oxygen loss impair cognitive and emotional well-being over time.
Key Risk Factors of Sleep Apnea
Several factors increase your likelihood of developing sleep apnea:
- Excess Weight or Obesity: Extra fat around the neck can obstruct airflow.
- Large Neck Circumference: A neck size of 17 inches or more in men (16 inches in women) is associated with higher risk.
- Nasal Blockages: Chronic congestion, a deviated septum, or other structural issues may restrict breathing.
- Family History: Genetics plays a role in sleep apnea risk.
- High Blood Pressure: This condition is both a risk factor and a complication of untreated apnea.
The Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Ignoring sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including:
- Cardiovascular Issues: High blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke risk increase.
- Metabolic Disorders: Sleep apnea is linked to Type 2 diabetes and weight gain.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Chronic fatigue, impaired work performance, and increased accident risk are common outcomes.
When You Visit a Sleep Specialist
Here’s what you can expect during your initial consultation with our Nashua sleep dentist:
- Medical History Review: Your sleep patterns, lifestyle, and symptoms will be discussed.
- Diagnostic Testing: A sleep study, such as a polysomnogram, may be recommended. This test measures breathing, oxygen levels, and sleep quality to confirm the presence of sleep apnea.
Treatment Options
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
- CPAP Therapy: Continuous positive airway pressure keeps airways open.
- Oral Appliances: Devices like mandibular advancement devices reposition the jaw to prevent airway collapse.
Why Choose Dr. Ura in Nashua, NH?
At the Center for Dental Sleep Health, Dr. Ura provides high-quality care with a focus on minimally invasive solutions. As a certified dental sleep medicine provider, he specializes in custom oral appliances that effectively treat mild to moderate sleep apnea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you have sleep apnea without snoring?
Yes. Not all sleep apnea cases involve loud snoring. Watch for other signs, such as choking during sleep or excessive daytime fatigue.
Does sleep apnea cause insomnia?
Yes. The constant sleep interruptions can lead to symptoms of insomnia, such as difficulty falling and staying asleep. Treating the apnea often resolves these issues.
Why should I see a dentist for sleep apnea?
Dentists trained in sleep medicine can provide customized oral appliances tailored to your needs. These devices are a great alternative for those who find CPAP machines uncomfortable or ineffective.
What is the best oral appliance for sleep apnea?
Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue-retaining devices are popular options. Dr. Ura will recommend the best solution based on your unique anatomy and severity of sleep apnea.
Take Charge of Your Sleep Health Today
Don’t let sleep apnea rob you of restful nights and productive days. Take the first step toward better sleep by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Ura. Call (603) 237-1124 to connect with our team.
The Center for Dental Sleep Health welcomes patients from Nashua and surrounding areas, including Hudson, Merrimack, and Milford, NH.