Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur dozens of times an hour. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to a range of health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, and daytime fatigue. Understanding the risk factors and early warning signs of sleep apnea is important for both prevention and effective treatment. Dr. Henrich and his team want you to know the risk factors for sleep apnea in Tulsa, OK.
Know the Sleep Apnea Risk Factors
Several factors can make a person more likely to develop sleep apnea. One of the biggest risks is being overweight. Extra weight can cause fat to build up around the airway and make it harder to breathe during sleep. Men are more likely to have sleep apnea than women, but a woman’s risk increases after menopause.
Age also matters, since the condition is more common in older adults. Certain physical traits, like a thick neck, a smaller airway, or large tonsils and adenoids, can block airflow and raise the chances of sleep apnea. Family history can also play a role, which means genetics may increase the risk.
Some medical conditions add to the likelihood as well. People with nasal congestion, asthma, high blood pressure, or type 2 diabetes may be more vulnerable. Chronic nasal blockage can make it even harder to breathe at night. Lifestyle choices are another factor. Smoking irritates and inflames the airway. Drinking alcohol relaxes the throat muscles and can cause the airway to collapse after you fall asleep.
But knowing about these risk factors is important because it helps people seek care sooner. Early treatment can improve sleep quality, protect overall health, and prevent serious complications.
See the Warning Signs
Many people with sleep apnea are unaware they have it. Often, it’s a partner or family member who first notices the signs.
One of the most common signs of sleep apnea is loud snoring. It can often be broken up by gasping or choking sounds as the airway becomes blocked. Other nighttime symptoms include waking up with a dry mouth, morning headaches, or being woken up often at night.
Sleep apnea also shows up during the day. People may feel extremely tired, have trouble focusing, or become more irritable. In some cases, poor sleep can even lead to depression. Many people with untreated sleep apnea can doze off during everyday activities like reading, watching TV, or even while driving, which can be very dangerous.
Daytime sleepiness poses serious safety concerns. If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, consult a healthcare professional. A sleep study conducted at a sleep center or at home can diagnose the condition and guide treatment.
Prevention and Lifestyle Strategies
Not all causes of sleep apnea are within your control, but certain lifestyle changes can lower your risk and ease mild symptoms. Losing weight is one of the most effective steps you can take. Even a small amount of weight loss can reduce pressure on the airway and make it easier to breathe. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and improve sleep quality.
Avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime can prevent the muscles in your throat from relaxing too much. We also recommend that you stop smoking because it irritates and inflames the airways. A consistent sleep schedule and sleeping on your side instead of your back may also help keep the airway open.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
The treatment plan for sleep apnea depends on its severity. For mild cases, lifestyle changes may be sufficient. You may need medical care in more serious cases. The most common treatment is the use of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. It keeps the airway open and delivers a constant stream of air through a mask during sleep.
However, not every patient can tolerate CPAP treatment. Alternatives include oral appliances that reposition the jaw or tongue to keep the airway open. We may recommend surgery for you if you have anatomical issues. Treatment can improve sleep quality and reduce health risks.
Get Sleep Apnea Treatment in Tulsa, OK
At Henrich Dental, we understand the connection between your oral health and overall health. If you have chronic fatigue, wake up with a sore jaw or throat, or have trouble staying asleep, sleep apnea could be the culprit. We offer oral appliance therapy that could improve your sleep quality without the hassle of a CPAP.
Contact our office today at (918) 553-5907. You can also schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.