Have you been told that your snoring is annoying, but nothing to worry about?
Snoring is usually dismissed as harmless, but that isn’t always the case. In many adults, especially those over 40, snoring may be a warning sign of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can go undetected for years.
Snoring vs. Sleep Apnea: A Closer Look
Snoring is noisy breathing during sleep. It can range from light to loud, but typically doesn’t cause much disruption beyond the sound itself. Sleep apnea, however, includes actual pauses in breathing that interrupt your rest and reduce oxygen levels in your body.
You might think you’re getting eight hours of sleep, but if you have sleep apnea, then it won’t be restful. For those with sleep apnea, much of the time sleeping is spent in a disrupted, low-quality sleep state.
Red Flags That It’s More Than Just Snoring
Concerned that your snoring might be a symptom of sleep apnea? Here are key signs that you may have sleep apnea:
- Your partner notices choking or gasping sounds at night
- You wake up with a headache or dry mouth
- You feel exhausted, no matter how long you sleep
- You fall asleep easily during the day, even while driving or working
Why Treatment Matters
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, and cognitive decline. That’s why early identification is so important. Treating your sleep apnea will help improve your sleep quality and protect your overall health.
For mild to moderate cases, we offer a custom oral appliance. These devices reposition the jaw to maintain an open airway without the bulk of a CPAP machine.
Count On Us for Sleep Apnea Treatment in Waterloo, ON
If you’re unsure whether it’s just snoring or something more, don’t guess. Visit our dental team at Icon Dental Clinic for help. We offer custom dental appliances for snoring and sleep apnea treatment in Waterloo, ON.
Contact us and schedule a consultation today to protect your sleep and your health.