In our previous blog post, Dr. Lechner went over both kinds of sleep apnea: OSA and CSA. Both types of sleep apnea are characterized by excessive snoring throughout the night, and waking up feeling short of breath/gasping for air.
Do you dream of a better night's sleep? Below, Dr. Lechner offers a few treatment options that can help to relieve your sleep apnea and/or snoring.
Option 1: Make necessary lifestyle changes
One of the most common causes of snoring is obesity. When you get overweight, fat starts to block your airway and cause snoring. If you begin working out, eating healthier, and losing weight, this may be enough to relieve your snoring. Consuming alcohol before bed can also cause snoring; try to limit your alcohol intake during the night.
Option 2: A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine
A CPAP machine works to constantly blow air down your airways, to keep them open throughout the night. Using a CPAP machine requires the patient to wear a mask over their face, a motor to blow air, and a tube that connects the CPAP mask to the motor. Unfortunately people run into many problems with their CPAP machines and stop using them.
Option 3: A night guard/bite splint
A night guard (also commonly known as a mouth guard, bite splint, bite guard, etc.) gives your tongue and jaw a place to rest while you sleep. This, in turn, causes your airway to open up, relieves your snoring, and allows you to breathe properly. A night guard is perfect for people who only have light to mild sleep apnea. A night guard can also be utilized for patients with severe sleep apnea who have tried a CPAP machine but cannot use one.
Your best option for finding relief is to discuss your health problem with your dentist and family physician. Your team of health care professionals can help you determine what your best option is.
Do you need a dentist in the Delaware, OH area?
If you are in need of a dentist in the Delaware, OH area, feel free to contact us today to schedule an appointment. Dr. Lechner has treated many cases of sleep apnea and bruxism with night guards.