Sleep apnea is a surprisingly common condition, which left untreated can lead to serious and even life-threatening diseases. It is also treatable, and is one of our specialties at Sleep Apnea and TMJ Solutions in Brentwood and Murfreesboro TN.
No one is immune from sleep apnea. While it is most common in overweight middle-aged men, even kids can get it.
So what is sleep apnea, exactly? There are several types. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common. With OSA the soft tissues in the back of the throat block the airway. The less-common central sleep apnea is when the brain and the breathing muscles don’t communicate properly. Complex sleep apnea is a mix of the first two types.
What Makes Apnea Serious?
Sleep apnea is dangerous because what the different types have in common is that breathing stops and restarts during sleep. It can happen and over as you sleep. The brain is deprived of oxygen. It also deprives you of a good night’s sleep.
When it isn’t treated, sleep apnea can contribute to type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It can increases the risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke.
A common symptom of sleep apnea is snoring, although snoring doesn’t automatically mean you have apnea. Other signs include waking up suddenly with shortness of breath, or even gasping for air. Waking up with a dray mouth, a sore throat, or headache are also signs.
At Sleep Apnea and TMJ Solutions in Brentwood and Murfreesboro TN we specialize in sleep apnea and its treatment. If you think you or a loved one has sleep apnea, give us a call to schedule an appointment today!
Contact Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions
615-850-8445
Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):
1177 Old Hickory Blvd, Suite 203
Brentwood, TN 370271605 Medical Center Pkwy, Suite 215
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
