Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder caused when an obstruction occurs in your airway when you sleep, preventing you from breathing properly. If you have trouble staying asleep, make choking or gasping sounds while you sleep, or are very tired even after sleeping a sufficient number of hours, you may suffer from sleep apnea. These obstructions are often caused by your tongue blocking your airway or by the muscles in the back of your throat, and sleep apnea can result in hundreds of pauses in your breathing in a single night. We recommend you contact Dr. Michael P. Gaudio immediately if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of sleep apnea, which often include:
- Snoring
- Excessive daytime drowsiness
- Frequent morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability and mood changes
- Disturbed sleep
- Frequent sore throats
- Choking or gasping sounds while you sleep
- Interrupted breathing while sleeping
If not properly treated, obstructive sleep apnea can lead to several serious health complications, including high blood pressure, heart conditions, and liver disease. While sleep apnea must be officially diagnosed by a sleep specialist, our talented dentist can provide you with a dental appliance that can prevent your tongue or muscles from blocking your airway. If you have any questions about treatment for sleep apnea in Wallingford, Connecticut, please feel free to visit our office or contact us today. We are eager to meet you!
