Patient Education Overview

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Snoring

Snoring is a problem that effects 40% of adults by the age of 40. It is conservatively estimated that 45 million people in the United States snore every night. Snoring can cause disrupted sleep for both snorers and their sleeping partners and it can lead to health problems.

Snoring is the harsh sound that occurs when the tissue at the back of the roof of the mouth vibrates against the back of the throat. During sleep, those tissues, the tongue and the muscles that line the airway all relax. When this occurs, the airway narrows. As air passes through the narrower airway, the tissues vibrate against each other and create the snoring sound that can grow louder during sleep. Snoring may also be an indication of a bigger health problem-sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which the soft tissues at the back of the throat completely close off the airway so that air cannot flow into the lungs. This airway blockage can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the brain and body. When that happens. the brain alerts the muscles in the airway to tighten up and unblock the air passage. This leads to a process of blocking and unblocking of the airway that causes significant disruption of sleep.

The most common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea are:

Loud snoring
Restless sleep
Periodic stoppages of breathing
Irritability or personality change
Significant daytime sleepiness
Difficulty concentrating and poor memory

Sleep apnea is a health problem that can be associated with high blood pressure. heart problems and stroke. It is important for patients to see a physician or a sleep disorder specialist if they are experiencing snoring and daytime sleepiness.

Note:

This information is intended to help individuals manage their snoring and/or sleep apnea. It is not to be used as a guide for self-diagnosis or to recommend a particular treatment. Dr. Parker recommends consulting a physician for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

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Snoring & Sleep Apnea Dental Treatment Center
7225 Ohms Lane, Suite 180
Edina, MN 55439
952-345-0290