When sleep apnea starts to affect your life, it can be difficult to go through your daily routine. Unfortunately, many people suffer from sleep apnea for years without even realizing it. That’s why our Saint Louis sleep apnea dentists work to educate people on the intricacies of obstructive sleep apnea. When you know what to look for, you can effectively spot, and seek treatment for, sleep apnea before it takes over your life.
So, here are some unfortunate consequences and byproducts of sleep apnea:
1. Fatigue
This is one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea. Because sleep apnea deprives your body of adequate oxygen, you actually have to wake up multiple times throughout the night in order to jumpstart the breathing process. This interrupts your healthy REM sleep cycle: depriving of you restorative rest.
2. Concentration/Memory Problems
Along with fatigue, you may find it difficult to concentrate and remember things. Many sleep apnea patients struggle to stay attentive during the day—this can sometimes affect a patient’s ability to drive safely.
3. Disruptive Snoring
Obstructive sleep apnea is caused when oral tissues fall into a patient’s airway. As the patient tries to force oxygen through the airway, a loud snoring or gurgling noise results. Many people actually find out that they have sleep apnea because their sleeping partners tell them that they have been snoring!
4. Headaches
Chronic sleep deprivation, as well as the muscle tension that often accompanies sleep apnea, can cause painful headaches. These headaches are especially likely to pop up in the morning and before bed.
If you notice on or more of these issues in your own life, talk to your dentist about the benefits of sleep apnea treatment. As always, our Saint Louis sleep apnea dentists are happy to provide you with more information and advice.