Your overnight snoring might seem like a minor inconvenience. If your loved ones have mentioned this condition, they very well might be seriously concerned for your wellbeing. Chronic obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which the tissue of the throat collapses when your body relaxes too much. The nerve that controls our swallowing can become temporarily unable to support the shape of your waking throat.
Apnea refers to the temporary pauses in breath. The blockage of the throat prevents your airway from properly transporting oxygen to your lungs. This can lead to an elevation in blood pressure and a decrease in blood oxygenation. The combination of these two concerns can contribute to serious health conditions such as heart attack and stroke. Both of these are life-threatening, so do not dismiss your apnea as simple problem snoring. An oral appliance is available through Lathrop Dental Center in Katy, TX!
How This Condition Affects You
Chronic obstructive sleep apnea is a serious complication that can disguise itself as regular snoring. While the two conditions seem similar, apnea is a medical condition that arises when the body is in REM sleep. The name refers to the rapid eye movement that sporadically occurs and during this time, the body operates differently. The nerve that moves the tongue can become temporarily paralyzed during REM. When this happens, your throat may lose definition. The tissue of the throat may lay atop itself and prevent the proper flow of air into the lungs.
Lack of constant airflow to your body can lead to serious health complications. Through the COVID-19 pandemic, blood oxygenation became a common topic in understanding health. Apnea lowers the concentration of oxygen within your blood. Heart disease is also more prevalent in those with apnea. Take your health concern seriously as the increase in blood pressure could be life-threatening. You run a higher risk of stroke or heart attack if you do not treat your sleep disorder.
A Snoring Appliance Can Help You Breathe Freely Overnight
One helpful method of avoiding a blocked airway during REM is through an oral snoring appliance. This gently moves the jaw slightly forward as you sleep. A slight adjustment is all that is needed for many to restore airflow. This approach could help you to avoid noisy CPAP machines. Say goodbye to your mask and hose by instead allowing your body to work naturally. Oral appliances may also be a less intrusive solution for you than surgery. Speak with your qualified dental professional about your possibilities.
Breathe Better in Katy, TX
For more information, call Lathrop Dental Center in Katy, TX today at 832-437-3849 to schedule an appointment. Learn more about the ways that an oral appliance could help you to regain control of your breath overnight.
