Do you think you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea? Maybe you feel tired all day, get frequent headaches, or battle things like weight gain and depression. Is it possible to have a clinical sleeping disorder even if you don’t snore?
Most people think that snoring is a symptom of sleep apnea. But in reality, it’s possible to have a sleeping disorder with no snoring-or the other way around-snore without having clinical sleep apnea. However, the two often go hand in hand.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Not all types of sleep apnea are the same. Some are sleeping disorders that are the result of airway blockage, while others are a central nervous system disorders.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the most common types of sleep apnea. It is caused by restriction and blockage of the airway, near the back of the throat. This is the most common type of sleep apnea to requires treatment in San Diego.
Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Some of the most common symptoms of OSA include:
- Snoring
- Weight gain
- Headaches, migraines
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Depression
- Worn, flat, or chipped teeth
- High blood pressure, cardiovascular disease
If you’re exhibiting symptoms of sleep apnea and snoring, it’s best to take the first steps in getting screened. Fortunately, sleep apnea treatment in San Diego can often start with a take-home sleep study rather than an overnight stay in a sleep lab. Your at-home sleep analysis will measure respiration, pulse oximetry, snoring, breathing irregularities, and more. Each test allows for a proper assessment to diagnose or rule out a sleeping disorder so that you can seek the next steps in treatment.
Can Sleep Apnea Cause Snoring?
When tissues are restricted or loose/sagging in the back of the throat, they can vibrate against each other as air flows through them. This vibration creates audible snoring sounds.
People can snore for a variety of reasons. For instance, alcohol consumption, weight gain, or nasal congestion may contribute to snoring. But snoring is also one of the symptoms of sleep apnea, among many others. When someone has obstructive types of sleep apnea (OSA) they may snore because of the airway restriction that’s preventing them from taking in enough oxygen while they sleep. The snoring could be a result of their sleep apnea condition, but snoring doesn’t always mean someone has sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in San Diego
One of the most effective treatments for obstructive sleep apnea and snoring is a mandibular advancement device. These oral appliances help treat sleep apnea by naturally improving oxygen flow by widening the upper airway (in the back of your mouth.) Since they position your jaw and tongue in a certain manner, you can safely open the tissues in the back of your throat to prevent airway obstruction.
An oral appliance can be used in conjunction with or instead of CPAP machines. Many people find CPAP appliances to be too cumbersome and uncomfortable for quality sleep. Whereas an oral sleep device is more discreet, portable, and easy to use. But only certain healthcare providers offer oral appliances, so it’s important that you discuss this option as you begin your journey toward treating your sleeping disorder.
An Investment in Your Health and Lifestyle
Snoring is often one of the most obvious warning signs of sleep-disordered breathing. If you’re experiencing decreased energy, cardiovascular problems, or even a low libido, a lack of quality sleep may be what’s to blame. Taking the steps toward improved sleep health can naturally boost your metabolism and lifestyle.
Problems With Snoring? Call SD Sleep Center
SD Sleep Center offers treatment options for sleeping disorders like obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, and more. If you’re experiencing frequent snoring symptoms or suspect that you might have a sleeping disorder, contact us today to reserve a no-obligation consultation. Our providers will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and determine the next steps to take. We’re happy to answer any questions that you may have.