Sleep is a biological necessity, and failing to get enough of it can lead to health issues in many other areas of the body. While you may be aware of how this condition can make a person more likely to develop hypertension or diabetes, you may be surprised to learn that some sleep apnea patients will experience symptoms of depression. Here’s how this may happen as well as a quick guide to getting help from a sleep dentist.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a medical condition characterized by a patient waking up multiple times throughout the night due to interruptions in breathing. This typically happens due to how the muscles and other tissues in the neck put more weight on the windpipe as they relax during sleep, which can restrict a person’s airflow. An individual with sleep apnea may wake up more than one hundred times in a single night, which can easily make a proper night’s rest impossible.
Nothing Sets You Up for a Bad Mood Like Bad Sleep
If you’ve ever gone through your day after a lackluster night’s sleep, you’ve undoubtedly noticed a difference in how you behave and feel. You may struggle to stay awake or pay attention, and you may also become irritable. People who haven’t slept properly are also more likely to overeat, which can lead to indigestion, discomfort, and sluggishness. If you’re experiencing these issues every day due to obstructive sleep apnea, you may find yourself in a constantly strained and exhausted state that makes depression more likely.
How Can My Sleep Dentist Help?
Luckily, there is help available for people suffering from sleep apnea. Dentists often use oral appliance therapy to reduce a patient’s symptoms so they can enjoy great sleep that sets them up for happy and productive days. Oral appliances are customized mouthpieces that are worn over the teeth during sleep, and they hold the lower jaw in a forward position to help keep the airway open. This allows for a much quieter and more comfortable treatment than CPAP machines.
Leaving sleep apnea untreated can lead to a range of health issues such as depression. Getting help can allow you to sleep deeply and comfortably so you can enjoy better rest and more pleasant waking hours.
About the Practice
Healthy Sleep Tulsa offers the finest sleep-related dental health services in town. Led by Drs. Lori Hare, Billie Reeder, and Robin Ross, the staff ensures that each patient receives exemplary care and outstanding customer service. Areas of expertise include sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy, and myofunctional therapy. If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, contact the office online or dial (918) 300-4325.