Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that is characterized by abnormal breat
hing patterns. This condition can be serious if not treated accordingly by your sleep apnea dentist in Bloomington.
When someone has sleep apnea, their breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep. These lapses in breathing can prevent enough oxygen from reaching the brain, and it can cause a person to choke or gasp for air while sleeping.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is considered to be one of the most common sleep disorders in America. There are three different types of sleep apnea, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and mixed sleep apnea.
- Obstructive sleep apnea - When a person’s airway is blocked or obstructed--either by enlarged tonsils, uvula, or excess soft tissue--this may mean they have OSA. The obstruction can cause the person to experience disrupted, irregular breathing.
- Central sleep apnea - CSA occurs when the brain doesn’t send signals to the respiratory muscles necessary for proper breathing.
- Mixed sleep apnea - Mixed sleep apnea, also called complex sleep apnea, refers to simultaneously having both OSA and CSA.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea has numerous signs and symptoms, including:
- Interrupted sleep
- Drowsiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Moodiness
- Fatigue
- Snoring
- Choking or gasping for air
Everyone experiences sleep apnea differently, but a visit to your dentist in Bloomington, IN can provide insight into your condition and how to treat it.
If you have any questions about sleep apnea and snoring or want to know what treatment is best for you, please contact us today.