Learn About Sleep Apnea with Dr. Sriram V. Myneni – Manchester, CT

Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening disorder in which breathing repeatedly pauses during sleep. The term “apnea” comes from the Greek meaning “without breath.” Pauses can last from several seconds to minutes, occurring as often as 30 times or more per hour. These interruptions create an imbalance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, prompting the brain to wake the body to restart breathing. Many people with sleep apnea are unaware of these episodes because they do not fully wake up.

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Types of Sleep Apnea

There are two main types:

  • Central Sleep Apnea: Occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the breathing muscles.
  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Occurs when air cannot flow through the nose or mouth despite the body’s effort to breathe. This is the more common type and is treatable by dentists.

Common Signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

  • Loud snoring or choking during sleep
  • Severe morning headaches
  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Insomnia

Why Sleep Apnea Should Be Treated

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses, causing the tongue to block the airway. This repeated blockage increases carbon dioxide levels and decreases oxygen levels in the blood, forcing the heart to work harder. Over time, untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious cardiovascular problems and other health risks.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

Treatment begins with a thorough dental evaluation and diagnostic testing. Depending on the severity of the condition, the dentist may recommend lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking, alcohol, and certain medications that worsen sleep apnea.

Common treatment options include:

  • Dental Appliances: Custom devices gently move the lower jaw forward, preventing the tongue from blocking the airway. These are non-invasive, comfortable, and often help patients avoid surgery.
  • CPAP Therapy: Traditional sleeping masks keep airways open during sleep.
  • Surgical Options: In select cases, surgery can reposition the lower jaw to reduce airway obstruction. This procedure is highly effective and minimally invasive.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, contact our office today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Sriram V. Myneni in Manchester, CT.