What Is Sleep Apnea? Jacksonville, FL![]() What Is Sleep Apnea?What is sleep apnea and how does it affect you? In the simplest terms possible, sleep apnea is a disorder that causes an individual to stop breathing for short periods of time while they are asleep. If you suffer from sleep apnea, that means your body is not taking in enough oxygen. People who suffer from this condition often find themselves gasping awake due to insufficient oxygen levels. This problem can be easily detected and controlled through a variety of treatment options. At Atlantic Dentistry, we will help you treat your sleep apnea by diagnosing your personal situation, and offering both medical and dental solutions. Types of Sleep ApneaThis condition manifests itself in three forms: obstructive, central, and complex. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of this condition, and it occurs due to the relaxation of the throat muscles. It is most commonly recognized by snoring, although some patients may not display that symptom. The second form, central sleep apnea, occurs due to a lapse in signals being sent to the brain. Complex sleep apnea, the last form of this condition, is essentially a combination of the previous two. Effects of Sleep ApneaThere are many effects of this condition. One of the common effects is the onset of certain mental health issues. Additionally, sleep apnea has the potential to lead to memory loss and increase the risk of heart failure. Besides health risks, individuals who suffer from sleep apnea and excessive snoring also cause serious disruptions for other people. A person who snores may make it difficult for kids and other family members to get restful sleep at night. Furthermore, the constant interruptions of sleep that sleep apnea causes may lead to low productivity during the day. Although most people who experience such sleep interruptions may think it is a normal occurrence, it is actually due to the inability to breathe well. If you find yourself waking up several times during the night, let our experts analyze your condition to determine the cause. Is the Condition Treatable?There are various treatments for sleep apnea. If you experience difficulty in breathing while asleep, or if you snore, then let our experts diagnose you. If we conclude that you suffer from sleep apnea, we will prescribe an oral therapy device, medication, or perhaps surgery. When you come for a consultation, we will paint a clear picture of your options. Interruption of breath in your sleep can be dangerous, and in some cases fatal. After understanding what sleep apnea is, and how it can affect your life, you should make it a priority to seek restorative sleep without interruptions. At Atlantic Dentistry, we are ready to help you find a permanent solution. Please contact us for more information. |
![]() Office hoursMon - Fri: 8:00AM - 5:00PM Sat: By Appointment Location13920 Old St Augustine Rd, Suite 103 Jacksonville, Fl 32258-5561 ContactOffice: (904) 644-3020 |