Do you often snore at night? If so, then there may be more at risk than just the ire of your significant other. In some cases, chronic snoring has been linked to obstructive sleep apnea, a serious disorder that can impact your overall health and quality of life. When should you be worried about chronic snoring?
Frequently Asked Questions About Snoring and Sleep Disorders
Question: Why do we snore?
Answer: We snore when our breathing is partially obstructed during sleep. Soft tissues in the back of the throat and in our mouth will become too relaxed and collapse. As air is forced through, the tissues vibrate, causing us to snore.
Question: How does this link to sleep apnea?
Answer: Since sleep apnea episodes occur when our breathing is completely blocked, snoring can be a warning sign of obstruction. Not every case is snoring is linked to sleep apnea, but if you recognize any of the symptoms in the next answer, then you should consider making an appointment for a diagnosis.
Question: Should I see the dentist?
Answer: If you notice you feel tired regularly during the day, experience frequent moodiness, wake up with dry mouth, or wake up in the night gasping for air or choking, then yes, you should contact the dentist.
Question: How do I stop?
Answer: You can limit your risk by sleeping on your side instead of your back, avoiding caffeine or alcohol before going to bed, and talking to your dentist. We can often address the issue with a custom oral appliance, which prevents airflow obstruction and allows you to sleep without interruption.
If you have any questions about sleep apnea, then please contact our office today.