Obstructive Sleep Apnea – Weatherford, TX

At Weatherford Dental Sleep Medicine, we specialize in addressing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition characterized by repeated breathing pauses during sleep due to airway obstruction. With an estimated 22 million Americans affected, 80 percent remain undiagnosed, which is why our goal is to provide safe and effective solutions to improve patients' well-being. Continue reading to learn more about this condition or give our office a call for personalized assistance.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It occurs when the throat muscles relax, blocking the airway partially or completely. This obstruction leads to pauses in breathing, often lasting from a few seconds to minutes.

Causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Typically, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) arises due to factors like excess weight, having a narrow throat or large tonsils, and structural abnormalities in the airway contribute to its development. Additionally, conditions like nasal congestion, enlarged adenoids, or a recessed jaw can worsen OSA. Lifestyle factors like alcohol consumption, smoking, and sedative use may also increase risk. Recognizing these underlying causes is key to diagnosing and treating OSA effectively.

Possible Complications of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can contribute to several immediate and long-term risks, such as:

• Delayed reaction times – OSA disrupts sleep cycles, slowing reactions and raising the risk of motor accidents.
• Impact on daily life – Mood disorders and sexual dysfunction are more common among OSA sufferers.
• Cardiovascular health issues – OSA heightens the chances of heart attacks, strokes, and related issues.
• Weight fluctuations – While weight gain can exacerbate OSA, the condition itself can lead to increased cravings for high-calorie foods, contributing to unwanted weight gain.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Knowing when to seek medical attention might not always be clear, especially if you don’t have someone to observe your sleep patterns. However, if you or a loved one notice any of these signs, don't hesitate to contact our team at Weatherford Dental Sleep Medicine immediately. We'll promptly arrange a consultation to evaluate your situation and recommend the best course of action.

Reach out if you:

• Disturb others with loud snoring
• Awaken gasping or choking due to breathing interruptions
• Discover pauses in your breathing during sleep
• Suffer from persistent daytime fatigue affecting your work or driving ability