Waking Up Feeling Fatigued?
Tried Several Options To Stop Snoring?
More Than Just A Great Smile!
What Is Sleep Apnoea?
Sleep apnoea, also known as central sleep apnoea, is a common medical problem, and you may have it without realising. It occurs when air can’t get into the lungs as you sleep – apnoea is Greek for “want of breath”. This can expose your body to multiple stresses, leaving you exhausted during the day and posing the risk of serious medical complications.
In severe cases, the effects of sleep apnoea can be similar to those of narcolepsy – causing an individual to fall asleep in the daytime with little or no warning.
Unknown to many, sleep apnoea, at its core, can be a dental problem. For example, the alignment or trauma related to Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders can influence the airway’s size and function. Dentists often identify early signs of sleep apnoea and can provide custom-fitted oral appliances to aid in its treatment.
At Aesthetic Laser Dentistry, we recognise the importance of this interrelation. Our dedicated team is well-versed in the nuances of sleep apnoea and is primed to assist you, providing optimal dental care without compromising your overall well-being.
What Causes Sleep Apnoea?
Sleep apnoea can be triggered by a range of factors, generally linked to anything that narrows the airways. Some of the most common causes include:
- Being overweight or obese: Excess fat inside the neck can surround the throat, causing it to become narrower.
- Age: Throat muscles tend to relax more during sleep as people age.
- Alcohol consumption: Alcohol causes the throat muscles to relax more than usual during sleep, leading to both sleep apnoea and snoring.
- Certain illnesses: Conditions such as reduced thyroid production (hypothyroidism) or the presence of a significant goitre can contribute.
- Large tonsils and adenoids: In children, these can narrow the airway and lead to sleep apnoea.
- Medications: Some medicines, like sleeping tablets and sedatives, can increase the risk.
- Nasal issues: Congestion and obstructions in the nasal passage can trigger sleep apnoea.
Who Gets Sleep Apnoea?
Sleep apnoea doesn’t discriminate; anyone can be affected. Approximately 5% of Australians suffer from this condition, with 1 in 4 men over 30 experiencing signs of sleep apnoea. Notably, severe obstructive sleep apnoea is more prevalent in men in this age bracket, making them three times more susceptible than women.
Another contributing factor is having a narrow throat, which can lead to snoring as the throat muscles relax during sleep.
While dentists can’t formally diagnose sleep apnoea, they’re often the first to identify potential symptoms or risk factors. Aesthetic Laser Dentistry is renowned for sleep apnoea treatment in Melbourne, and our dentists are adept at spotting these early signs. They’ll provide their professional insight regarding your risk and guide you on the potential next steps.
Snoring And Sleep Apnoea
Snoring can be a symptom of sleep apnoea – but not always. Snoring occurs when muscles at the back of the throat relax and vibrate as air passes through them.
Sleep apnoea occurs when these muscles relax to such an extent that the airway becomes blocked completely and you stop breathing temporarily – for a few seconds or much longer. This can result in the brain and the rest of your body being deprived of oxygen.
When your brain kickstarts your breathing again, the process is often accompanied by a snorting or choking sound, prompting you to wake up suddenly and gasp for air. This pattern can be repeated numerous times a night, and in some instances, you might remain unaware of the condition. If such symptoms sound familiar, seeking snoring treatment in Melbourne can be a pivotal step towards better sleep and overall health.
Symptoms Of Sleep Apnoea
Sleep apnoea can affect anyone. You may have the condition if you’re experiencing problems such as:
- Persistent fatigue
- Waking up with a headache
- Difficulty concentrating
- Poor memory
Certain symptoms of sleep apnoea may mirror those of other conditions. It’s paramount to consult with the experienced team at Aesthetic Laser Dentistry. Venturing into self-diagnosis can have unintended repercussions; place your trust in our professionals for informed guidance.
Medical complications of sleep apnoea
Sleep apnoea is much more serious than heavy snoring. Potential long-term medical complications include:
- Heart disease.
- High blood pressure.
- Sexual dysfunction.
Symptoms Of Sleep Apnoea
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep disorder where breathing is briefly and repeatedly interrupted during sleep. Several risk factors contribute to its development:
- Excess Weight: Obesity significantly raises the risk of OSA. Fat deposits around the upper airway may obstruct breathing. However, not everyone with OSA is overweight, and vice versa.
- Neck Circumference: People with a thicker neck might have a narrower airway, increasing the risk of blocked airflow.
- Narrowed Airway: This inherited trait can also be a result of enlarged tonsils or adenoids that block the airway, especially in children.
- Being Male: Men are more likely to experience OSA. However, the risk for women increases if they’re overweight, and it also seems to rise after menopause.
- Age: OSA is more common in middle-aged and older adults. However, it can occur at any age.
- Family History: Having family members with OSA might increase your risk.
- Use of Alcohol or Sedatives: These substances relax the muscles of your throat, increasing the risk of OSA.
- Smoking: Smokers are more likely to develop OSA compared to non-smokers. Smoking can increase inflammation and fluid retention in the upper airway.
- Nasal Congestion: An anatomical obstruction, whether from an allergy or anatomical trait, can block the airways.
- Medical Conditions: Congestive heart failure, polycystic ovary syndrome, and hypothyroidism can increase OSA risk. Polycystic ovary syndrome, prior strokes, and chronic lung diseases such as asthma can also increase risk.
Recognising these risk factors is essential for early intervention and management of OSA. If multiple risk factors apply, consider seeking medical advice.
How Is Sleep Apnoea Treated?
Dentists help people who suffer from sleep apnoea or chronic snoring by providing custom-made oral sleep appliances.
These appliances include mandibular advancement devices (MADs), which open your airway by moving your lower jaw forward. They also prevent the tongue from folding backwards and causing airway obstruction.
Recognising these risk factors is essential for early intervention and management of OSA. If multiple risk factors apply, consider seeking medical advice.
How Does A Sleep Apnoea Treatment In Melbourne Work?
Every individual’s experience with sleep apnoea is unique, as is the treatment journey. When choosing a sleep apnoea treatment in Melbourne, consider the following steps:
- Assessment: Begin with a thorough evaluation by a sleep specialist. Understand the severity and type of your sleep apnoea.
- Research: Equip yourself with knowledge. Understand the various treatments available and how they work.
- Personal Comfort: Some prefer oral appliances over CPAP machines for comfort or convenience. Consider what you’ll be most compliant with.
- Expert Consultation: Seek advice from professionals experienced in sleep apnoea treatment in Melbourne. They can provide insights tailored to your specific needs.
What To Expect From Your Sleep Apnoea Appointment With Us.
Every appointment at Aesthetic Laser Dentistry is meticulously crafted to prioritise your health. We offer patient-centred dental services, including sleep apnoea testing, ensuring your comprehensive well-being.
Before delving into any procedure, our dedicated dentists undertake an exhaustive consultation to understand your needs, plotting the optimal course of action. This holistic approach is complemented by our unwavering commitment to before and aftercare, ensuring you’re supported throughout your journey with us. Trust in Aesthetic Laser Dentistry to safeguard your health at every turn.
Besides sleep apnoea, Aesthetic Laser Dentistry covers other dental services. You may set an appointment with us for the following:
How Much Does A Sleep Mouthguard Cost?
Sleep apnoea is a condition where breathing pauses or becomes shallow during sleep. For those affected, a sleep mouthguard can be a vital solution. This dental device helps reposition the lower jaw and tongue, preventing the airway from collapsing, thereby ensuring uninterrupted breathing throughout the night.
The prices of Sleep mouthguards vary based on factors such as customisation, brand name, the materials used, and the complexity of your condition.
Contact Aesthetic Laser Dentistry if you’re looking for relief from the problems associated chronic snoring or sleep apnoea.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) occurs when the throat muscles excessively collapse during sleep, restricting or completely blocking airflow to the lungs.
What is the difference between sleep apnoea and obstructive sleep apnoea?
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is caused by physical obstructions blocking the airway during sleep, such as the relaxation of throat muscles. On the other hand, regular apnoea, or central sleep apnoea, involves a lack of respiratory effort due to failed signals from the brain, not physical obstructions. Both disrupt restful sleep differently.
It is essential to accurately diagnose the type of apnoea to determine the correct treatment. Differentiating between the types ensures that you receive the most effective care. Consult Aesthetic Laser Dentistry for expert guidance.
What are the dangers of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a grave condition characterised by intermittent breathing stoppages during sleep, often causing individuals to sleep with their mouths open. It occurs as throat muscles relax excessively, obstructing the airway. The resulting lowered oxygen levels in the blood strain the cardiovascular system and disrupt restorative sleep. Symptoms include daytime fatigue, loud snoring, and morning headaches.
If OSA is left untreated, patients risk developing even more severe health complications like hypertension, heart disease, and cognitive disorders.
It’s crucial to seek sleep apnoea treatment promptly to prevent these escalating health issues and ensure overall well-being.
What happens if sleep apnoea is left untreated?
If left untreated, sleep apnoea can significantly diminish one’s quality of life. The repeated awakenings associated with this condition make restorative sleep elusive.
Without proper intervention, individuals face daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and a decreased ability to focus. Not only do patients suffer poorer work performance, but they also encounter higher accident risks.
Additionally, sleep apnoea self-care practices can complement medical treatments, empowering patients to proactively manage their condition and improve their overall well-being.
What are the degrees of severity of sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea varies in severity and is categorised mainly into three degrees: mild, moderate, and severe.
- Mild sleep apnoea involves 5-14 episodes of interruptions in breathing per hour.
- Moderate encompasses 15-30 episodes.
- Severe sleep apnoea, the most alarming, results in over 30 interruptions hourly.
Can sleep apnoea affect your driving ability?
Yes. Individuals with untreated sleep apnoea often experience daytime fatigue and drowsiness due to interrupted sleep. This fatigue can lead to decreased alertness and slower reaction times, increasing the risk of road accidents.
In fact, sleep apnoea causes such impairment that some liken its effects to driving under the influence of alcohol.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or believe you might have sleep apnoea, seeking professional guidance is vital. Consult with Aesthetic Laser Dentistry for a comprehensive sleep apnoea treatment in Melbourne.
