Does your partner tell you that you snore or hear you gasping for air at night? Do you wake up still feeling tired no matter how much sleep you get? You may suffer from sleep apnea if any of that sounds like you. Sleep apnea can result from the collapsing of the upper airway caused by the muscles of the throat relaxing during sleep.

Some Symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Loud snoring
• Episodes in which you stop breathing during sleep — which would be reported by another person
• Gasping for air during sleep
• Awakening with a dry mouth
• Morning headache
• Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
• Difficulty paying attention while awake
• Irritability

It is best to first speak with your doctor who may schedule a sleep study to determine the type and severity of your sleep apnea.

Other health issues related to sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that can contribute to diabetes, heart disease and depression. It can also increase daytime drowsiness which can lead to poor concentration, motor-vehicle or work accidents and moodiness. Sleep apnea can also be found in children which can lead to them performing poorly in school or behaviour issues. If you or your child are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to see a doctor.

What can be done to prevent sleep apnea?

A digital sleep apnea device called a D-SAD from Panthera Sleep can be custom made for someone suffering from sleep apnea. The device works by moving the lower jaw forward to a comfortable position to open up the airway, allowing you to breathe during sleep. The D-SAD is constructed using 3D printing which results in an extremely light weight yet durable product. The smallest device in the industry! The appliance is recommended for patients who snore, have mild or moderate sleep apnea, or who refuse or cannot tolerate the CPAP.

Sleep apnea can contribute to many serious health issues and should not be taken lightly. Please do not hesitate to contact our office to learn more about what we can do for you and book an appointment. We look forward to getting you back to peaceful, healthy sleep.