Posted by Mike Schmidt on Thu, Jun 14, 2012 @ 03:16 PM
A great article that discusses the effects that sleep apnea can have on teenagers. A common misperception is that sleep apnea is only an issue during your adult years. Be sure to talk with your dentist regarding any issues you might have so you can receive the proper treatment.
http://health.msn.com/health-topics/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea-in-teens-linked-to-social-behavioral-woes
Posted by Mike Schmidt on Fri, Jan 20, 2012 @ 09:53 AM
A new study has come out linking untreated obstructive sleep apnea to cardiovascular mortality in women.
http://www.doctorslounge.com/index.php/news/pb/26024
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can affect your overall health. CPAP machines are commonly used to treat it, but surgery may be required in more advanced cases.
Posted by Mike Schmidt on Thu, Nov 17, 2011 @ 02:42 PM
Do you know someone who snores so heavily that it wakes them up at night? Many people put it off as only "snoring," but it could be much more serious. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) disrupts sleep patterns in 2-4% of adults and causes them to stop breathing multiple times during the night. Often times, patients turn to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy to help their condition, but there are other ways to help control it.
Check out this recent study regarding diet and exercise in relation to sleep apnea.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/11/111102093043.htm
Posted by Mike Schmidt on Wed, Feb 09, 2011 @ 03:20 PM
The signs and symptoms of sleep apnea can frequently be overlooked or disguised. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, approximately 30% to 50% of the US population snore at one time or another. Although it is not a direct relationship, people that snore loudly can be diagnosed with OSA, or obstructive sleep apnea…where they stop breathing for a short period of time, but often don’t realize it.
Although snoring can be disruptive and irritating, OSA can be a life-threatening condition. Some risks of untreated OSA include:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Irregular heartbeat
- High blood pressure
Depending on the severity of conditions, your Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon may suggest a variety of treatments that could improve your situation. The list includes:
- Behavior Modification (i.e. weight loss, less alcohol intake or a change in sleep position)
- Oral Appliance (a molded device used at night to hold the lower jaw and bring the tongue forward)
- C-PAP machine (a specially designed mask that prevents the airway or throat from collapsing)
Surgery is also a viable option for some patients, but would require an extensive consultation with your oral surgeon first.