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Do you feel tired and sleepy every time you wake up in the morning? Conversely, do you feel drowsy throughout the day and like taking a nap? If yes, then you have a condition called Sleep Apnea. 

What is Sleep Apnea in Gramercy Park, NY Dentistry?

According to the Sleep Foundation 1, sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is repeatedly disturbed or paused during sleep. Unfortunately, sleep apnea is a common disorder affecting over 30% of the US population. To further complicate things, people who suffer from this disorder are often unaware that their breathing pattern during sleep is abnormal and only become aware of it when their partners complain that they snore loudly while asleep. 

But the good news is that sleep apnea is treatable. This blog will discuss the types, common symptoms, and treatment of sleep apnea. So, continue reading to learn everything you need about this sleep disorder. 

What are the Types of Sleep Apnea in Gramercy Park, NY Dentistry?

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine 2, sleep apnea comprises two main types: obstructive and central apnea. Although both types of apnea result from the transient cessation of breathing while sleeping, they differ in terms of the underlying cause. 

  1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea 

This type of apnea occurs when the airway gets physically narrowed or obstructed, which prevents airflow. In such cases, the person usually wakes up suddenly and takes several deep breaths or gasps while engaging the muscles in the throat. This is often accompanied by a loud snorting or choking sound. This is the most prevalent type of sleep apnea throughout the world.

  1. Central Sleep Apnea 

This type of apnea occurs due to miscommunication between the muscles involved in breathing and the brain. This results in a temporary cessation of breathing caused by the misfiring of the neurons and abnormal activity of the breathing muscles. This type of apnea occurs less commonly. It has been estimated that central sleep apnea occurs in about 1% of the US population. 

Sleep Apnea Risk Factors in Gramercy Park, NY Dentistry?

Obstructive and central sleep apneas have different symptoms:

  1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea

In sleep, the following symptoms are observed:

  • Daytime drowsiness and tiredness 
  • Loud snoring, often accompanied by gasping or choking 
  • Morning headaches that linger for a few hours
  • Dry mouth in the morning 
  • Restless nighttime sleep 
  • Irritability 
  • Difficulty in focusing 
  1. Symptoms of Central Sleep Apnea 

The common symptoms of central sleep apnea are:

  • Abnormal breathing pattern – breathing slows down, increases rapidly, or pauses for some time during sleep. 
  • Daytime drowsiness 
  • Sudden shortness of breath and chest pain at night
  • Difficulty in focusing 

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea in Gramercy Park, NY Dentistry? 

There are various risk factors for sleep apnea. These include: 

  • Excessive weight 
  • Hereditary factors 
  • Certain facial forms have a higher risk of sleep apnea
  • Large neck circumference 
  • Enlarged tonsils
  • Alcohol intake 
  • Menopause in women 
  • Hypothyroidism 
  • High levels of growth factor 

How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed in Gramercy Park, NY Dentistry?

If someone is suffering from sleep apnea, cosmetic and implant dentistry Gramercy Park, NY doctor would like to know about their sleep pattern and health status. They will also obtain information about the medicines you are taking and whether they can affect your sleep or cause apnea. 

For suspected patients of sleep apnea, a sleep study can be performed either at home or at a specialized sleep center. A sleep study involves monitoring a person’s sleep, i.e., how many hours they sleep, how many times they wake up, or have an apnea episode. The study also measures the person’s heart rate, blood pressure, lungs, and breathing muscle activity. This will help your cosmetic and implant dentistry Gramercy Park, NY physician diagnose sleep apnea. 

How is Sleep Apnea Treated in Gramercy Park, NY Dentistry?

The treatment of sleep apnea depends on the underlying cause. According to the American Lung Association, there are several ways to treat sleep apnea:

  1. Lifestyle Changes 

Lifestyle changes such as exercise and eating a healthy diet help reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnea. Similarly, restricting alcohol intake and quitting smoking are also helpful for sleep apnea patients. 

  1. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

This machine blows air in your mouth to prevent the airway from getting blocked during sleep. One has to wear a mask that fits into the nostrils. CPAP is typically the first line of treatment employed by doctors for treating sleep apnea.

  1. Surgery

Surgical treatment is usually the last resort when other treatment options are not fruitful. Surgical treatment involves removing excess soft tissue, which helps keep the airway open. At the same time, a nerve simulator is also inserted so that one can breathe easier during sleep. 

Sleep apnea is a severe problem that should not be taken lightly. If you live in NY and are looking for a renowned cosmetic and implant dentistry Gramercy Park, NY dentistry practice   NY, Dr. Toksoy’s | Studio Dental NY is the best place to enjoy a healthy and dazzling smile. Our that offers treatment of sleep disorders, Dr. Toksoy’s | Studio Dental NY is your best option. We provide all general dental and specialist services under one roof. So, what are you waiting for? book an appointment with us today, and start enjoying a healthy and active lifestyle!

We look forward to seeing you at our NY dental practice. 

References 

  1. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-apnea
  2. https://sleepeducation.org/sleep-disorders/obstructive-sleep-apnea/
  3.  

David Toksoy, DMD, BDS 

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