Sleep Apnea in Denver CO

If you're one of the millions of people who suffer from sleep apnea, you know how important it is to find the right treatment. There are many different options out there, and it can be tough to know which one is right for you.

At Makowski Dental, we have the expertise and technology to gift you a good night's sleep. Our doctors will assess your health and tailor a personalized solution for your sleep apnea in Denver CO.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a medical condition in which you suddenly stop breathing while asleep because your throat muscles relax too much and block your upper airway. These pauses in your breathing, called "apneas," can deprive you of oxygen and alter your sleep patterns.

Sleep apnea can also lead to overall health issues like:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Strokes
• Mood swings
• Low energy levels

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

If you're wondering whether you suffer from sleep apnea, here are some common symptoms you should be aware of:

• Snoring: You or your partner may notice your snoring is loud and persistent.
• Pauses in Breathing: You momentarily stop breathing during sleep or make choking or gasping sounds.
• Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: You find yourself feeling extremely tired during the day, struggling to stay awake, or even dozing off at inappropriate times.
• Morning Headaches: Frequent headaches upon waking can be a symptom, especially if they ease as the day goes on.
• Difficulty Concentrating: You're having trouble focusing on tasks, remembering things, or maintaining attention.
• Irritability: You have mood swings, increased irritability, or heightened emotional responses you can't explain.

Not everyone with sleep apnea experiences all these symptoms, but if you recognize several of them, please seek professional evaluation and guidance.

Types of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
OSA is the most common form of sleep apnea and is often linked to the relaxation of throat muscles, leading to airway blockages during sleep.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
CSA occurs when your brain doesn't send proper signals to your respiratory muscles. It's less common than OSA and can be associated with certain medical conditions.

Complex or Mixed Sleep Apnea
Sometimes, you may have a combination of both OSA and CSA, referred to as complex or mixed sleep apnea.  

Understanding the type of sleep apnea helps us develop the most effective treatment options for you.

Can Children Have Sleep Apnea?

Unfortunately, sleep apnea isn't limited to adults; it can also affect children. If you're concerned about your child's sleep, consider these symptoms:

• They snore loudly and consistently or exhibit irregular breathing patterns during sleep.
• They wet the bed, especially in older children.
• They struggle with focus, attention, or behavior in school.
• They frequently toss and turn, experience night sweats, or appear restless during the night.

While sleep apnea is less common in children than adults, you must be vigilant about these signs and consult one of our sleep professionals if you suspect your child suffers from this condition. Early diagnosis and intervention make a significant difference in their well-being and development.

How Can You Treat Sleep Apnea Symptoms?

If you or your child are dealing with the symptoms of sleep apnea in Denver, you can get the following treatments in our office:

CPAP Therapy
CPAP therapy is the most common sleep apnea treatment. It involves using a machine that pumps air into your lungs while you sleep. This air pressure keeps your airway open and prevents sleep apnea.

‍Oral Appliance Therapy
Another choice you have is oral appliance therapy. A custom-made mouthpiece that fits comfortably over your teeth keeps your airway open while you sleep, making it easier for you to breathe.

Lifestyle Changes
In some cases, you just have to make lifestyle changes to treat sleep apnea, such as:

• Losing weight: Carrying excess weight can lead to extra tissue in the throat, which may partially obstruct your airway during sleep. When you lose weight, you reduce this obstruction, making airflow easier while you sleep.
• Quitting Smoking: Smoking irritates and inflames the throat and airways, which makes them more prone to collapse or blockage during sleep. If you quit smoking, you reduce this inflammation, leading to less frequent and severe apneas.
• Avoiding Alcohol Before Bed: Alcohol relaxes your throat muscles, which can increase the likelihood of airway blockage during sleep. Not drinking alcohol in the hours leading up to bedtime helps keep these muscles firmer and your airway more open, reducing the chances of sleep apnea episodes.

You can adopt these habits into your everyday life can be a proactive and effective way to manage your sleep apnea symptoms and promote better, uninterrupted sleep.

Say Goodbye to Sleep Apnea in Denver by Visiting Makowski Dental!

If you're ready to take control of your sleep and improve your overall health, it's time to visit Makowski Dental for quality sleep apnea treatment. Schedule your consultation today to get started!