A good night’s rest is more than a luxury. It’s necessary for your body to recharge and repair at the close of each day. When you fail to get enough sleep, it can put a strain on your heart and your metabolism. Your energy levels can drop. Your ability to concentrate can also be a problem. If you have a sleep disorder, you could be at risk for health problems down the line. You need to be aware of signs that you could benefit from sleep disorder treatment.
What are Signs that You Have a Sleep Disorder?
When you think of sleep disorders, sleep apnea is the first thing that comes to mind. However, snoring can be an issue as well. When you snore, the soft tissues that line your throat and the back of your mouth vibrate. That vibration leads to the noise you make while sleeping. It can also put pressure on your carotid arteries, putting you at a higher risk of having a stroke. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that causes your airway to be blocked while you are asleep. It could be caused by the position of your jaw and tongue when you are at rest, the way the tissues in your throat cave in, or it could be the result of a problem with the way your brain is sending messages to the rest of your body when you are sleeping. Signs that you may be suffering from sleep apnea include waking up often throughout the night, gasping in your sleep, or feeling like you are choking. You could be exhausted every day because your rest has been disrupted repeatedly throughout the night. You may have difficulty staying awake while you are driving or during the day.
How Do You Know You Have a Sleep Disorder?
A sleep disorder specialist is your best resource when you think you may have a problem. When you come in for a sleep study, it will be possible to find out if sleep apnea is your problem. If you are diagnosed with the condition, your specialist will talk to you about treatment options. Your alternatives include a mouth guard that is worn at night, a CPAP device that is worn while you sleep to provide you with a constant flow of oxygen, or orthodontic work. In some cases, surgery may be the solution for you. You may also be given solutions for snoring, such as breathing strips that are applied to the bridge of your nose. With the proper treatment, you can sleep well while your body gets the oxygen it needs for optimal performance.
Talk to Your Sleep Disorder Specialist to Find Out if You Need a Sleep Disorder Treatment
To find out if you need sleep disorder treatment, we encourage you to reach out and make an appointment with Advanced Ear, Nose and Throat. At our convenient location in Atlanta, our caring and devoted team of professionals will be pleased to explain this option to you in full and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to set up your consultation – we look forward to speaking with you!