Snoring may be something that people joke about, but in truth it can be a sign of a much more serious medical condition called sleep apnea. That annoying sound that emanates from the mouth while you sleep is caused by the vibration of soft tissue in your throat as air passes by. Bigger problems arise, however, when this same tissue blocks your airway. To treat snoring and sleep apnea in Plano, TX, Dr. Keane Fedosky at Sleep Rehab will create a customized oral appliance that helps maintain an open airway so you can breathe and sleep at night.
Snoring in Plano, TX
In and of itself, snoring is not problematic—and just about everyone may snore at some time during sleep depending on his or her sleeping position at the time. Trouble brews, however, among those snorers who also have sleep apnea. In this case, the same tissue that merely vibrates during snoring in Plano tends to fall back in your throat and block your breathing passageway. When this happens, breathing can stop completely and may restart with a snort or loud gasp.
Sleep Apnea in Plano, TX
When you stop breathing during an episode of sleep apnea, your brain sends a signal through the nervous system that slightly awakens the body to restart breathing. You may not be able to remember these moments of awakening, but the cumulative affect will likely leave you feeling tired the next day. Moreover, the lack of oxygen in your bloodstream causes your heart to work harder, which can lead to high blood pressure, stroke and cardiovascular disease. Other illnesses and diseases that have been linked to sleep apnea include:
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Headaches
- Dementia
Treating Snoring and Sleep Apnea in Plano
Whether a sleep study shows that you are a snorer or that you have sleep apnea, Dr. Fedosky can treat either with a custom designed oral appliance. This mandibular repositioning device (MRD) gently shifts your lower jaw and tongue forward in order to open your airway. Worn nightly, it can help you and your bed partner get a peaceful night of sleep.
Call Our Office Today
If you or a loved one snores at night, make sure the reason is not the more serious concern of sleep apnea. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Fedosky, contact Sleep Rehab today.