Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common, underdiagnosed sleep disorder in which the upper airway repeatedly becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing (apneas) or reduced airflow (hypopneas).
It is estimated that up to 80% of individuals with obstructive sleep apnea are unaware, mistaking their symptoms for simple snoring or fatigue.
These interruptions can lead to fragmented sleep and decreased oxygen levels, which can have significant negative effects on other body systems.
Common Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Nighttime symptoms:
- Loud, habitual snoring
- Witnessed pauses in breathing
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Restless sleep
- Frequent awakenings
Daytime symptoms:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Irritability or mood changes
- Fatigue despite adequate time in bed
Health Consequences of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Untreated OSA is associated with increased risk of:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Type 2 diabetes
- Daytime accidents due to sleepiness
- Reduced quality of life
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Prognosis
With appropriate treatment, many people experience significant improvement in sleep quality, daytime functioning, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being.
Treatments include CPAP Therapy, Surgical Intervention, and Oral Appliance Therapy among others. While CPAP therapy has been shown to be the most effective form of treatment, it is not always tolerated by patients for a variety of reasons.
At North Shore Dentistry, we can provide patients with mild-moderate (and in select cases severe) obstructive sleep apnea an alternative in Oral Appliance Therapy.