Snoring is very common and most adults experience it from time to time.If you notice or have been told that you continuously snore, or that you stop breathing in your sleep, it may be time to come in for a sleep apnea consultation.
Sleep apnea is a disorder that disrupts your breathing while you sleep. Apnea means "no breath," meaning your body and brain are being deprived of oxygen. If you experience repeated disruption in your sleep, you could be suffering from sleep apnea.
Do I Have Sleep Apnea?
Having sleep apnea prevents your body from getting restful sleep. If left untreated, it can cause serious health problems in addition to sleep deprivation.
Some of the symptoms of this sleeping disorder include:
- Snoring
- Tiredness or Fatigue
- Waking up during the night
- Weight gain
- Heart abnormalities
- GERD
- Behavioral Problems in Children
- Irritability
- Depression
- Multiple trips to pass water
- Erectile dysfunction
- Morning headaches
- Red throat
- Large neck circumference
If you believe that you or someone you know may be suffering from any of the symptoms listed above, be sure to contact our office to discuss your concerns. Dr. Miller has been diagnosed with sleep apnea and is well equipped to discuss it. We will have you conduct a comprehensive questionnaire to grade the level of sleep difficulty that you are experiencing.
Only a physician can diagnose sleep apnea. We work with several sleep specialists in the Western Communities and can refer you to someone in your network for a proper evaluation.
CPAP Alternatives
Dr. Miller is experienced in crafting custom oral devices that replace the use of the CPAP machine for mild to moderate sleep apnea caused by an obstructive airway. Central sleep apnea, on the other hand, is caused by a problem occurring within the brain and only a physician can help with that disorder.
An oral appliance can also be used in conjunction with a CPAP to greatly lower the air pressure for severe sleep apnea. However, most of our patients are CPAP intolerant and looking for something to replace their bulky mask and headgear.
Ask about our trial device, so that you can test-drive how an oral sleep appliance works before having one made!
Snoring in Children
Snoring in children is not normal and should be addressed immediately. Usually, it is due to oversized tonsils and adenoids blocking the airway. Many children have been mislabeled incorrectly with ADHD, when their behavior is actually due to lack of proper sleep.
For more information about sleep apnea treatment, contact our office today.