Sleep Apnea

Welcome to Oral Surgeons PC, the leading oral surgery practice in Des Moines, Iowa, dedicated to providing comprehensive and specialized care for our patients. In this blog post, we will explore the topic of sleep apnea, its impact on overall health, and how our skilled team of oral surgeons can help solve issues related to sleep apnea. If you or a loved one is struggling with sleep apnea, we are here to offer effective solutions that can lead to better sleep and improved overall health.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep, resulting in poor-quality sleep and various health complications. The two main types of sleep apnea are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA).

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most prevalent form of sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles in the throat relax, causing the airway to narrow or close completely. This obstruction leads to breathing gaps or pauses, known as apneas, that can last for several seconds or longer. The brain then senses the lack of oxygen and triggers a brief awakening to resume normal breathing. These awakenings are usually so brief that they go unnoticed, but they can disrupt the sleep cycle and result in daytime fatigue.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

Central sleep apnea is less common and occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing during sleep. Unlike with OSA, there is no obstruction in the airway. Instead, the pauses in breathing are caused by a lack of respiratory effort. Central sleep apnea is often associated with underlying medical conditions, such as heart failure or brainstem damage.

The Impact of Sleep Apnea on Overall Health

Sleep apnea can have a significant impact on overall health and well-being. When left untreated, it can contribute to or worsen various health conditions, including:

1. Daytime fatigue and diminished cognitive function: The interrupted sleep caused by sleep apnea can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and impaired cognitive function.

2. Cardiovascular problems: Sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attack, irregular heartbeat, and stroke. Repeated pauses in breathing can strain the cardiovascular system and disrupt normal blood flow.

3. Diabetes: Studies have shown a strong link between sleep apnea and the development or worsening of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

4. Mental health issues: Chronic sleep deprivation from sleep apnea can contribute to the development or exacerbation of mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety.

5. Weight gain and metabolic problems: Sleep apnea has been linked to weight gain and metabolic syndrome, which includes conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance.

6. Compromised immune system: Sleep apnea can weaken the immune system, leaving individuals more susceptible to infections and impairing the body's ability to fight off illness.

How Oral Surgeons PC Can Help with Sleep Apnea

At Oral Surgeons PC, our experienced oral surgeons are trained in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea through a variety of procedures that can alleviate the symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are some of the ways we can help:

1. Oral Appliance Therapy: Our oral surgeons can custom-fit patients with oral appliances, such as mandibular advancement devices (MAD), that help keep the airway open during sleep. These devices are worn in the mouth and work by repositioning the jaw and tongue forward, preventing the collapse of the airway.

2. Surgical Options: In certain cases, surgery may be recommended to address structural abnormalities that contribute to sleep apnea. Our skilled surgeons can perform procedures such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), genioglossus advancement, or maxillomandibular advancement to help open up the airway and improve breathing during sleep.

3. Collaboration with other specialists: Our team at Oral Surgeons PC works collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, including sleep medicine physicians and dentists specializing in sleep disorders, to provide comprehensive care for patients with sleep apnea. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their specific needs.

Conclusion

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can have profound effects on overall health and quality of life. If you or a loved one is struggling with sleep apnea, don't hesitate to seek help from the expert oral surgeons at Oral Surgeons PC in Des Moines. With our advanced diagnostic capabilities and a range of treatment options, we can customize a solution to address your sleep apnea and help you achieve restful nights and improved well-being.

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea or are seeking effective treatment options, visit us online to schedule an appointment with our experienced oral surgeons. Get one step closer to better sleep and overall health. Don't let sleep apnea hold you back any longer – contact Oral Surgeons PC today.