Kingston TN
Sleep apnea is a dangerous health condition characterized by breathing interruptions while sleeping. While pauses in breathing usually last only 10 to 20 seconds, they can occur several times a night — and up to 100 times in severe cases. Most patients don’t recall being startled awake each time they stop breathing during the night, but the frequent sleep-cycle disruptions result in light, restless sleep that impairs concentration and productivity during the day. Sleep apnea has numerous negative effects on physical health, including your heart, and it can even potentially even be fatal. Our Kingston airway dentists share on the blog today how to reduce your risk of developing sleep apnea so you can protect your health and live a more vibrant life.
What are some ways I can reduce my sleep apnea risk on my own?
Sleep apnea can lead to complex medical problems, but prevention starts at home.
Our Kingston dentists explain that modifying lifestyle choices can lessen the condition’s severity:
- Lose weight – Excess weight in the human body can lead to restricted airflow. Losing weight removes fat cells around the airway, allowing air to flow far more easily. This one change reduces symptoms of sleep apnea and helps patients receive a better night’s rest.
- Exercise – Exercise is an excellent way to boost your energy and strengthen throat muscles for improved breathing. It can help you shed unwanted pounds for better airway flow and a healthier heart.
- Sleep Sideways – A primary cause of sleep apnea is the position in which you sleep. Sleeping on your back can obstruct your airways, while sleeping on your side can prevent snoring by keeping your airway open.
- Avoid Alcohol – Consuming alcohol or sedatives before bed can make the muscles in your throat relax, making it difficult to breathe.
- Stop Smoking – Tobacco use has a multitude of health complications, including inflammation and fluid retention in upper airways, which can lead to breathing challenges.
- Limit Caffeine – Caffeine before bed can create sleep disturbances, so it’s best to limit consumption and stop drinking caffeinated drinks at least two hours before going to sleep.
What are available treatments beyond what I can do myself?
Our Rockwood sleep-apnea dentist is honored to offer various treatment methods to help you reduce your sleep-apnea symptoms and reap the benefits of a better night’s sleep. First, you will undergo a full examination of your oral health and airway. A sleep study will likely be recommended to determine your condition’s severity and, thus, the recommended treatments. After receiving sleep-study results, our dentists will discuss your treatment options. For mild to moderate cases, oral-appliance therapy can help open the airway and facilitate proper airflow while sleeping.
Airway Dentistry in Kingston TN
Lifestyle habits and choices can have a direct impact on sleep apnea, which means you can help control your risk of the dangerous health condition. Pairing your efforts with proper treatment from our experienced sleep-apnea dentists at LakeView Dental Arts can drastically reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea and improve your overall health and wellness. To find out more, please call us at (865) 376-9687, or reach us online to ask a question or schedule an appointment.
