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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – Sleep apnoea is a sleep condition that most people associate with snoring. However, sleep apnoea is much more than that. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, often referred to as OSA, is the partial or full blockage of a person’s airways while they try to sleep. As a result, sleep is consistently disrupted, with the lack of sleep having a significantly negative impact on daily life. OSA can lead to constant tiredness, lack of libido and inability to socialise as normal, among other symptoms.
If you feel like you might have sleep apnoea, continue reading to find out more about it and discover how visiting a sleep apnoea Melbourne dental clinic could be a likely solution.
Sleep Apnoea – Symptoms and Causes
Sleep apnoea often presents itself as episodes of loud snoring, gasping and waking up suddenly throughout the night as a result of being unable to breathe properly. The symptoms of sleep apnoea can be as simple as headaches or as severe as an inability to concentrate, lack of libido, and falling asleep throughout the day. So why does it happen? Sleep apnoea is common amongst people who:
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Are overweight or obese
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Smoke
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Consume excessive amounts of alcohol
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Have large tonsils, tongues, enlarged uvulas or excessive tissue in the throat
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Have other nasal passage obstructions
A person that suffers from sleep apnoea will experience difficulty or a complete inability to breathe. This disruption to nightly sleep can lead to a number of health risks, so it’s important that the condition is taken very seriously. People often seek out assistance from a sleep apnoea Melbourne professional when dealing with OSA. In general, it’s also a good idea to establish a solid and ongoing relationship with a sleep apnoea dentist, as they can assist with both the treatment of OSA and the effects it can have on your oral health
How a Sleep Apnoea Dentist is Involved in Treatment
Among the many different OSA devices and treatments available, sufferers of the condition can also choose to visit a sleep apnoea dentist for treatment of sleep apnoea. Typically, a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device will be provided by a sleep apnoea professional, but visiting a sleep apnoea dentist can also be beneficial for treatment.
CPAP devices involve a nasal mask being worn that blows air into your mouth and nose as you sleep. This pressure helps to keep your throat open and prevent airway blockages from occurring. CPAP devices are currently considered to be most effective OSA treatment for sufferers.
Dentists can also provide patients with an oral appliance that’s worn at night. It works by pulling the jaw forward in order to prevent the collapse of the upper airway as you sleep. These devices are known to be successful for both minor and severe cases, and they’re a good option for people who may find the CPAP device too intense or invasive to wear. These devices can be correctly fitted and designed by a dentist that specialises in sleep apnoea.