At Dental Pearls we treat a range of concerns with a sensitive, gentle approach that extends to the obstructive sleep apnoea problems that our Brisbane patients experience
Obstructive sleep apnoea is something that affects millions of people and can have a significantly detrimental effect on those who suffer from it. Our passion is helping people in any way that we can, and our staff will always ensure that you receive the best, most appropriate course of treatment for your specific needs including healthy sleep solutions.
The Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
There are a whole host of symptoms for obstructive sleep apnoea and some are more prevalent than others. However, persistently loud snoring is the hallmark of sleep apnoea at night and is the most obviously recognisable symptom to yourself and others. During the day, the symptoms become subtler. Before diagnosis and treatment for sleep apnoea can begin, these symptoms need to be identified and your dentist needs to be able to first assess the severity of your case and develop a treatment plan accordingly.
The dangers of untreated sleep apnoea mean that getting treated as soon as possible is extremely important. Major health complications such as diabetes, heart problems and stroke are direct results of untreated sleep apnoea. But what are the more nuanced symptoms? During the day, sleep apnoea is characterised by:
- morning headaches
- dry mouth
- depression
- anxiety
- lack of concentration
- fatigue
With this in mind, it is recommended that you see a healthcare professional instead of indulging snoring home treatments and remedies of any kind.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
Sleep apnoea occurs when the airways that we use to breathe are blocked off by the soft tissue in our throats. It is also caused when these airways collapse during sleep or relaxation and are directly linked to snoring and breathing difficulties. While you sleep, the soft tissue vibrates and that’s when you hear the dreaded snoring sounds that are synonymous with obstructive sleep apnoea. In severe cases, obstructive sleep apnoea can even stop your breathing entirely even if it is only temporarily, reducing the flow of oxygen to the brain.
These breaks can last anywhere between a couple of seconds or minutes and as many as thirty times over the course of an hour. When this happens, your body has an automatic response that wakes you up, so you can breathe properly. This stop/start rhythm interrupts the quality of your sleep and can cause you to feel tired and agitated throughout the day.
Sleep Apnoea Treatment from Dental Pearls
At Dental Pearls we will give you a thorough examination in order to determine just how severe your case of sleep apnoea is and whether or not you are a suitable candidate for the treatment. Once we’ve done so, will utilise an anti-snoring device that assists patients in maintaining a clear airway that will give you the sleep you need. The device is fully customised and constructed using data taken from your sleep assessment.
We will then monitor your progress over the course of a few weeks and record any changes in the quality of your sleep and calibrate where necessary until you no longer exhibit any of the sleep apnoea symptoms mentioned. To find out more about our sleep apnoea treatments or to make an appointment, click here.
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