|
A solid night of sound sleep is important; so important that our overall health and ability to function effectively during the day depends on it. But when your normal breathing pattern is disrupted during sleep, it's not unusual for health to deteriorate. Many people suffer from snoring. It happens when the soft tissues of your throat narrow, causing vibration as air passes through. This restriction in air flow can not only prevent you and those in your household from getting a good night's sleep, but studies are finding that snoring can have a negative impact on your total body health. Snoring and Sleep Apnea-A Serious Link Although for many people snoring is harmless, in some cases it can also be a sign of a more serious medical condition known as sleep apnea, a disorder that causes you to stop breathing during sleep. Sleep apnea is characterized by episodes of abnormal pauses in breathing during sleep. These episodes can last several seconds and are caused by some sort of blockage that occurs within the airway that impedes the natural flow of breathing. One of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea is snoring. That's why if you're a loud, habitual snorer, you should visit your Nashua dentist or regular physician for a proper diagnosis. Other common symptoms include:
* Gasping for air or choking while sleeping
* Unexplained morning headaches
* Difficulty remembering things
* Problems concentrating
* Sore throat or dry mouth in the morning
* Excessive tiredness throughout the day Your Nashua Dentist Can Help You Sleep Easy If you or a family member is aware of a snoring problem, a custom snore guard can be made to help reduce or eliminate your snoring woes. The snore guard, which resembles an athletic mouth piece, is a small oral appliance worn during sleep to reduce snoring by moving the jaw forward and preventing the tongue from closing off the air passage. With your air passage open and unobstructed, snoring is greatly reduced which results in a quiet, restful sleep for you and the members of your household. Remember, snoring and sleep apnea is not just a social nuisance. They can be a serious health risk.
If you suspect that you or a member of your household suffers from snoring or sleep apnea, the first step is to see a specialist. Your dentist in Nashua can evaluate your symptoms, provide a proper diagnosis, refer you to a sleep disorder specialist if needed and recommend a treatment plan for your specific condition. Don't be one of many people who don't take action to solve their snoring problem. Your snoring may be linked to a very serious health condition known as sleep apnea. Your dentist can provide the best treatment plan for your snoring problems to help you and your loved ones enjoy a good night's sleep once and for all.
Dr. Robert LaRocque, Nashua dentist, is a native of New Hampshire and grew up in Hudson. He attended the Georgetown University School of Dentistry in Washington, D.C. and graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1984. Dr. LaRocque, Nashua implant dentist, offers patients an array of dental services for quality care.
|
