Adequate quality sleep is essential for your health, buy that may not be possible with loud snoring during the night. Sleep apnea affects a large population worldwide and about 22 million Americans.
The sleep disorder is common in adults between age 30 and 70. If you are looking to treat sleep apnea in The Woodlands, Scott Young, DDS, can help you find a solution. Reach out to his office today to see the available treatments.
What is sleep apnea?
It is a condition where you start and stop breathing during sleep. The disease occurs in different forms, but obstructive sleep apnea is among the most popular. It occurs when the throat muscles block the air passage.
The disorder may have the following symptoms:
- Morning headaches
- Loud snoring
- Daytime fatigue
- Gasping for air while sleeping
- Breathing interruptions during sleep
- Dry mouth
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Difficulty paying attention while awake
Loud snoring may not necessarily indicate you have sleep apnea as some people with sleep apnea do not snore. Sleep apnea affects your sleep quality, and when left untreated, it may lead to severe health complications such as:
- Heart problems
- High blood pressure
- Depression
- Type 2 diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Liver problems
Loud snoring may also not go so well with your partner or family members, which may affect your relationships.
Certain factors may affect your risk of sleep apnea, including:
- Excessive weight
- Being male
- A family history of sleep apnea
- Smoking
- A thicker neck circumference
- Older age
- Use of alcohol or sedatives
- Nasal congestion
- Having a narrow airway
- Underlying conditions such as high blood pressure
Sleep apnea diagnosis?
During your consultation, your provider will ask about your signs and symptoms to evaluate your condition. Dr. Young may also recommend sleep testing at the office to observe your breathing pattern during sleep. Home sleep tests are also available to check your vital signs such as heart rate and blood pressure during sleep.
What are the treatments for sleep apnea?
Your treatment depends on the extent of your condition—the treatments for sleep apnea range from lifestyle modifications to oral devices and surgery.
- Continuous positive airway pressure. It provides air pressure through a mask. The treatment provides improved results and prevents your symptoms.
- Oral appliances
- Treating existing medical conditions
- Tissue removal
The team at Scott Young, DDS also offers NightLase laser treatment for sleep apnea. The minimally invasive procedure is productive and provides excellent results to enhance smooth breathing.
What does NightLase involve?
The treatment occurs for two months, in three sessions. It involves activating collagen and elastin production in your mouth tissue using a dual-wavelength laser system. The laser technique fastens your soft palate organ to prevent sagging and restricting the airway.
Each session takes about thirty minutes. The treatment is comfortable and with no downtime, hence you can resume your daily life activities right away.
Consult a sleep apnea specialist today
Besides affecting your sleep quality, sleep apnea may cause health complications such as heart problems when not treated. Scott Young, DDS and the team offer effective treatments including NightLase, to relieve your symptoms. Kindly schedule your consultation today to learn more about sleep apnea.
Johnson