What to Do If You Think You Have Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea may be a common condition, but it doesn’t always have common answers. If you ask the internet, your friends, or your colleagues what to do, you may get very different answers. Here, we’ll look at why it’s not always a straightforward condition and when it might be time to contact an orthodontist in East Bradenton about it.

Sleep Apnea Today

When as many as 68% of adults over 60 have sleep apnea, it’s no wonder that it’s more talked about than ever before. Sometimes incorrectly confused with snoring (largely because that’s the most common symptom of apnea), it occurs when your airflow is interrupted at night.

What to Do

Sleep apnea can range from inconsequential to deadly. If you suffer the most mild form of apnea, you may not need to do anything at all (other than maintain a healthy lifestyle). Other people may need to lose weight, change their sleep hygiene, or quit smoking to make a noticeable dent in their symptoms.

Who to See

This is where it gets tricky. Dentists, orthodontists, sleep specialists, even your general practitioner can potentially see you for sleep apnea. As a general rule, you’re usually better off consulting with an oral healthcare professional if it’s an airflow problem. If you have a more severe type of sleep apnea, such as a brain disorder that blocks your breathing, you may need to see a specialist (e.g., a neurologist, etc.)

At Orthodontic Specialists, we recommend starting with the provider that you have the best relationship with, whether it’s your dentist or general practitioner. You can also contact our team to discuss your sleep apnea symptoms in East Bradenton and whether an orthodontist can help you open up your passages.