Sleep Apnea and Your Heart There is a correlation between obstructive sleep apnea and heart health. We want to help you get the oxygen your body needs while you sleep, and this can be done with several options. You are not limited to a CPAP. Working with our staff at Dallas Oral Surgery Associates, we can evaluate the throat, the tissue surrounding it, and discuss options specific to your needs. We can help you get the sleep you need and help protect your heart.Sleep apnea is a condition caused by the collapse of tissue in the throat that prevents the person from getting the air they need while they sleep. As the throat closes, the person is unable to intake the oxygen they need and quickly, the brain responds by waking the person just enough to cause them to gasp and take in oxygen. Often, the person is wholly unaware that they have this condition, though the symptoms the next day can be telling. The patient may experience a dry mouth, wake with a headache, wake feeling unrested, or be irritable. What they may not be aware of is the damage that sleep apnea can be causing, including damage from the stress hormones that your body releases when inadequate oxygen is being delivered. If these stress hormones are being released multiple times a night, repeatedly over long periods of time, the body can react with stress to the heart, including high blood pressure and increased risk of stroke. What Are My Options?Most people who think they suffer from obstructive sleep apnea choose to talk to their physician first. Your doctor can be a great resource, but they often only recommend losing weight and the use of a CPAP machine. Both of these options can work, but we have more options available. If you think you may have obstructive sleep apnea, we will begin with diagnosing the issue. This may include a sleep study. Once we have determined the issue, we can then offer some ways to alleviate the obstruction, which may include both surgical and non-surgical options. Non-Surgical Options for Sleep ApneaIn addition to the CPAP machine, there are different devices that a patient can wear while they sleep to help air pass. These retainer-like options do not require a breathing machine, they simply work by opening the space. One sleep apnea retainer is designed to hold the tongue, preventing it from slipping back toward the throat. Another device, known as a mandibular advancement device, brings the bottom jaw forward opening the airway. Surgical Options for Sleep ApneaIn addition to devices, we can discuss removing excess tissue in your throat through surgical treatment. This will depend on other factors. Sleep Apnea can be a frustrating condition with both immediate and long term health issues. Stopping these issues may be easier than you think. Our team is ready to answer your questions and provide you with options. Your heart may depend on it. For more information, contact our Dallas office at 214-363-9946. |
