If you can relate to these situations, you might suffer from sleep apnea:
- When you wake up you feel tired, even after a full nights’ sleep.
- Your family members complain about snoring or mention that you stop breathing during the night.
The Facts
According to the American Sleep Apnea Association (ASAA), some 20 million adults are affected by this condition. Other studies suggest another 10 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, but lack the official diagnosis.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most widespread form of sleep apnea. This means the flow of vital oxygen into your lungs by way of your mouth and nose is significantly hindered. Breathing can become shallow or even stop during frequent episodes that may last an average of 10 to 20 seconds each. Such pauses can occur 20 or more times in a single hour, resulting in disrupted sleep.
Sleep Apnea and Your Health
Future studies will no doubt shed even greater light on the subject, but there is a number of health risks already linked with OSA. These include:
- Heart Disease
- Type 2 Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Memory Loss
- Adult Asthma
- Weight Gain and Obesity
- Increased Likelihood of a Car Accident
- Depression
- Stroke
Finding Solutions
OSA is no laughing matter! With specialized training that Dr. Owens has received from the AACP (American Academy of Craniofacial Pain), he can help you receive treatment. The dental solution is to utilize uniquely crafted mandibular advancement devices. With these devices, your jaw can be positioned in an adjustable way as to allow optimum air intake during sleep.
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