Sleep
APNEA
SLEEP APnea
LA Smile Specialists is excited to offer advanced Obstructive Sleep Apnea testing and tailored treatments to help our patients achieve their best sleep yet. We have partnered with a sleep expert who uses state-of-the-art sonar upper airway testing and treatment technology to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatment options. Our team of specialists will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. Don’t let Sleep Apnea negatively impact your quality of life any longer.
Schedule an appointment with LA Smile Specialists today to take the first step towards better sleep and overall health.
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What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder where the upper airway repeatedly collapses, causing breathing to stop briefly and frequently during sleep. This can result in a drop in blood oxygen levels and disrupt the sleep cycle, leading to symptoms such as excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and mood changes.
Who can have Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Anyone can have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, regardless of age, weight, or overall health. It is estimated that 1 in 4 people have some form of airway obstruction while they sleep, and the condition is not limited to middle-aged or overweight individuals.
What causes obstructive sleep apnea?
There are many factors that can contribute to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, allergies, weight, diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption. However, the primary cause of OSA is the upper airway’s inability to remain open while sleeping, which can cause the airway to collapse or close off completely, leading to repeated episodes of breathing cessation.
ConsultationWhat are the symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Common symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea include excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, difficulty waking up in the morning, headaches, dry mouth, and difficulty concentrating. People with OSA may also experience mood changes, such as irritability and depression, and may have an increased risk for accidents due to fatigue.
What if you’re not diagnosed but still feel tired during the day?
Even if you are not diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea, you may still experience fatigue and tiredness during the day due to a restricted airway that lowers your blood oxygen levels while you sleep. This can prevent you from entering deep sleep, which is necessary for the body to fully replenish and restore itself.
What are some long-term complications of untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea can have serious long-term health implications, including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammation, blood sugar changes, immune system dysfunction, increased risk of chronic diseases, anxiety, depression, and even an increased risk of cancer development.
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How can Obstructive Sleep Apnea be treated?
There are two main treatments for obstructive sleep apnea: continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines and mandibular advancement devices (MADs). CPAP machines are a standard treatment that delivers air pressure through a mask worn over the nose and mouth, while MADs are a type of oral appliance that is fitted by a dentist to keep the airway open by slightly advancing the lower jaw. While both treatments can be effective, some patients may prefer MADs due to issues with CPAP compliance.
What is a sleep test (at home vs. lab)?
A sleep test, also known as a Polysomnogram, is used to diagnose Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Traditionally, a sleep test required spending the night in a sleep lab with various sensors and monitors attached to the body. However, with advancements in technology, it is now possible to take a sleep test at home using a device worn on the wrist that tracks sleep patterns and breathing. Both in-lab and at-home sleep tests are effective in diagnosing OSA.
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