Sleep Apnea is a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by abnormal breathing during sleep. It affects both children and adults pre-disposed through heredity or have health issues that impede normal breathing during sleep. However, men most commonly suffer from sleep apnea. Sleep Apnea often prevents a person from getting a good night's rest and can lead to serious health complications. If untreated, it could lead to high blood pressure, heart attack, type 2 diabetes, and other serious ailments.
Persistent symptoms that indicate you may have Sleep Apnea are:
- Headaches
- Sleepiness
- Irritability
- Poor concentration
- Sore throat
- Dry mouth
- Loud snoring
If one or more of these are regularly plaguing you in the morning and throughout the day, you could be suffering from Sleep Apnea. Contact Dr. Robert Bigelow in Richmond, VA, qualified to provide the proper medical diagnosis and treatment.
Common Causes of Sleep Apnea
Several factors that can bring on Sleep Apnea can be due to natural consequences or unhealthy lifestyle habits. If you are an older male, have a family history of Sleep Apnea, or possess certain physical traits such as a thick neck, narrow throat, or large tonsils, you are prone to having sleep apnea. If not addressed, poor habits and health conditions such as obesity, smoking, nasal congestion, and frequent use of alcohol and sleep aids can also lead to sleep apnea.
Medical Treatment for Sleep Apnea
The most immediate treatment offered by a provider for sleep apnea is to facilitate ease in breathing by prescribing devices for nightly use to keep your airway open. Based on the severity of your sleep apnea, Dr. Bigelow in Richmond, VA, will treat your condition by helping you choose the equipment option that best satisfies your needs.
Self-Care and Preventative Measures for Sleep Apnea
Although medical treatment may be necessary, the following guidelines can help open the airway and relax throat tissue, leading to easier breathing during sleep:
- Lose excessive weight
- Restrict the use of sedatives and alcohol before bed
- Quit smoking
- Sleep on your back or side
- Treat nasal congestion with a saline solution or nasal strip
- Elevate your head
Sleep Apnea is a serious condition because it affects your breathing, disrupts sleep, and can be detrimental to your overall health. If you are susceptible or exhibiting chronic symptoms, do not delay in scheduling a diagnostic appointment for Sleep Apnea with Dr. Bigelow in Richmond, VA at 804-741-7440 or email: bigelowdds@gmail.com