Treating a Potentially Serious Condition, Sleep Apnea
Do you find yourself feeling tired and agitated in spite of a full night's sleep? Sleep apnea could be to blame, and the repercussions can be far worse than simply disrupting a spouse's sleep with loud snoring.
Dr. Gregory P. Davis is a member of the Doctor Alliance Group and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. From his office based in Mason he offers treatment for sleep apnea to patients in Cincinnati, West Chester and surrounding communities. If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, contact our practice today to schedule a consultation.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is characterized by the interruption of breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea, the most common form of this condition, occurs when the airways become obstructed by the throat muscles, which relax during sleep. This can cause you to awaken for a few seconds at a time, several times an hour. Time spent awake is so brief that you may not remember your sleep being disrupted. As a result, you may wake up in the morning feeling groggy and tired, in spite of what you believe was a perfectly good night's sleep. Gone untreated, this prolonged reduction in blood oxygen saturation throughout the night can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, and other very serious complications.
In some cases, an imbalance in the brain's respiratory control centers causes sleep apnea. This is known as central sleep apnea, and is considered more complex than obstructive sleep apnea. Those suffering from central sleep apnea usually require the care of a specialist.
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Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Loud consistent snoring is the most apparent and widely known symptom of sleep apnea. However, there are several other tell-tale signs that should be noted. You should consult with Dr. Davis if you are experiencing:
- Waking with a choking or gasping sensation
- Fatigue or sleepiness throughout the day
- Memory loss, confusion or attention problems
- Irritability and mood swings
- Headaches, particularly in the morning
- Waking with a sore or dry throat
Available Treatment Options
Dr. Davis can help outline an appropriate treatment plan based on your needs. Meanwhile, he works in conjunction with a specialist to monitor improvement. Treating your sleep apnea may be as simple as sleeping in a different position, or losing weight. In other cases, surgery may be necessary.
In many cases, sleep apnea can be relieved with special devices worn during sleep. Custom mouthpieces can reposition the jaw, bringing the lower jaw forward and keeping the airways open. In other cases, patients may require a CPAP machine, which delivers a steady stream of air through a special mask. Dr. Davis will work closely with you to find the right solution for your needs.
Learn More About Sleep Apnea
Millions of Americans are affected by sleep apnea, but are totally unaware. Dr. Davis and his trusted specialists can determine whether you are experiencing sleep apnea, and prescribe the treatments necessary to help you achieve restful sleep. It is never too soon to address sleep apnea and determine a strategy to overcome its potentially debilitating effects. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
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Dr. Davis is especially good with kids. And his staff? Helpful, compassionate, and caring. They take care of business for you. Thumbs up. 10 on a scale of 5.
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