Sleep apnea is a severe sleep disorder impacting millions of people, including many right here in Natick. It involves repeated pauses in breathing while you sleep, which can last from a few seconds to several minutes. These interruptions lead to poor-quality sleep and can severely affect your overall health. The most general form is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which happen when the muscles in the upper airway cause a temporary airway blockage.
Many patients don’t know that they have sleep apnea until it has already affected their health. Common signs include:
There are several contributing components to sleep apnea in Natick, MA. One of the most significant is being overweight or obese, as excess tissue can narrow the airway. Individuals with naturally narrow airways or enlarged tonsils are also at greater risk. Lifestyle determinants like smoking and alcohol consumption can also maximize your chances of developing sleep apnea by relaxing the muscles around the airway.
Men are more likely to experience sleep apnea than women, although women’s risk increases after menopause. Age is a contributing factor, with sleep apnea becoming more frequent in individuals over 60.
If you suspect sleep apnea, getting a proper diagnosis is essential. Snoring alone doesn’t necessarily mean you have this disorder. At Natick Dental Health, we offer thorough evaluations to assess your symptoms and review your medical history. Sometimes, we recommend a sleep study, which can be done at home or in a sleep clinic. This test monitors your breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and other indicators while you sleep.
Sleep apnea is not just an inconvenience—it can have serious long-term effects. Untreated sleep apnea increases the probability of depression, stroke, high blood pressure, and diabetes. It also leads to chronic fatigue, which affects daily life, work productivity, and personal relationships.
Treatment choices for those diagnosed with sleep apnea depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, lifestyle enhancements such as weight loss or quitting smoking may be sufficient to alleviate symptoms. However, more severe cases often require additional intervention. The most general treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea is utilizing a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. This device keeps the airway open by providing a steady airflow through a mask you wear while sleeping.
For patients who find CPAP uncomfortable or those with mild cases, a custom oral appliance created by our dentist in Framingham can be an effective alternative. These appliances are made to reposition the jaw and keep the airway open, helping to prevent snoring and stop breathing interruptions during sleep.
At Natick Dental Health, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. With personalized care, we help patients find the most effective solution to improve their sleep quality and overall health. Whether you need a CPAP machine, an oral appliance, or guidance on lifestyle adjustments, our team is dedicated to providing personal care adjusted to your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!