You wake up exhausted, struggle to focus during the day, and maybe even hear complaints about your loud snoring. These may seem like minor inconveniences, but they could be signs of sleep apnea—a condition that does far more than disrupt sleep. If not addressed, sleep apnea can affect your heart, brain, and overall health in ways you might not expect. The good news? Sleep apnea therapy in Walnut Creek can help you breathe better, sleep better, and protect your long-term well-being.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses can last seconds or even minutes, depriving the body of oxygen. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when throat muscles relax too much, blocking airflow. Another type, central sleep apnea (CSA), happens when the brain doesn’t send proper signals to control breathing.
Common symptoms include:
- Loud snoring
- Waking up gasping for air
- Dry mouth in the morning
- Daytime fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
Many people don’t realize they have sleep apnea until a partner or family member points out their snoring or gasping episodes.
How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Health
Ignoring sleep apnea doesn’t just lead to tired mornings—it impacts nearly every system in the body.
Increases the Risk of Heart Disease
Every time breathing stops, oxygen levels drop, putting extra stress on the heart. Sleep apnea has been linked to:
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
Impacts Brain Function and Mental Health
Interrupted sleep means less oxygen reaches the brain. Over time, this can lead to:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
- Higher risk of depression and anxiety
Studies show that untreated sleep apnea can shrink certain areas of the brain, affecting cognitive abilities.
Raises the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Poor sleep affects insulin resistance, increasing the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Many people with sleep apnea also struggle with weight gain, another factor that contributes to diabetes risk.
Weakens the Immune System
Sleep is when the body repairs itself. Without enough quality sleep, the immune system struggles to fight off infections and illnesses. This can lead to more frequent colds, slower healing, and increased inflammation throughout the body.
How Sleep Apnea Affects Daily Life
Beyond long-term health risks, sleep apnea can create immediate problems in your daily routine.
Daytime Fatigue and Poor Performance
A full night’s sleep should leave you refreshed. But with sleep apnea, constant disruptions prevent deep, restorative sleep. This leads to:
- Struggling to stay awake at work
- Reduced productivity and concentration
- Increased risk of car accidents due to drowsy driving
Strained Relationships
Snoring and restless sleep don’t just affect you—they can disrupt your partner’s sleep, too. Many people with sleep apnea find their relationships strained due to:
- Sleeping in separate rooms
- Frustration over loud snoring
- Mood swings and irritability from sleep deprivation
Common Myths About Sleep Apnea
Many people underestimate sleep apnea because of common misconceptions. Let’s clear them up.
Myth 1: Only Overweight People Get Sleep Apnea
While excess weight increases the risk, sleep apnea can affect anyone—even those at a healthy weight. Other risk factors include genetics, neck structure, and nasal congestion.
Myth 2: Snoring Means You Have Sleep Apnea
Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea and not everyone with sleep apnea snores. The key difference is pauses in breathing, which only a sleep study or observant partner may detect.
Myth 3: CPAP Machines Are the Only Solution
CPAP therapy is effective but not the only option. Many patients benefit from oral appliance therapy, which is a less invasive, more comfortable alternative provided by dentists specializing in sleep apnea therapy.
How Is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
A proper diagnosis starts with a sleep study, which can be done in a sleep lab or at home. The test monitors:
- Breathing patterns
- Oxygen levels
- Heart rate
- Sleep cycles
After diagnosis, treatment options are tailored to the severity of the condition.
Fortunately, effective treatments are available to improve both sleep quality and overall health. Finding the right solution depends on the severity of your condition, lifestyle factors, and personal preferences. The good news is that various options are available, ranging from non-invasive treatments to surgical solutions.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
CPAP Therapy
A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine keeps airways open by delivering a steady stream of air through a mask. It is one of the most effective sleep apnea treatments, preventing breathing pauses and improving oxygen levels. However, some people find CPAP machines uncomfortable due to the mask, noise, or difficulty adjusting to the airflow. Alternative treatments may be a better fit for those who struggle with compliance.
Oral Appliance Therapy
A custom-fitted oral appliance repositions the jaw and tongue to keep airways open. This is a great alternative for those who can’t tolerate CPAP machines. Many patients at Coliseum Dental find oral appliances more convenient and comfortable, as they are silent, portable, and easier to maintain. They are particularly effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea cases and can significantly reduce snoring.
Lifestyle Changes
For mild sleep apnea, small adjustments can make a big difference:
- Losing weight if overweight, as excess fat around the neck can obstruct airways.
- Sleeping on your side instead of your back to prevent airway collapse.
- Avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed, as they relax throat muscles and contribute to breathing problems.
- Keeping nasal passages clear with saline sprays or decongestants to improve airflow.
Surgical Options
For severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove excess tissue or reposition the jaw to improve airflow. Procedures such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), genioglossus advancement, or maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) can help widen the airway and reduce obstructions. Surgery is usually considered a last resort if other treatments have failed or if there is a physical abnormality contributing to sleep apnea.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Sleep Apnea
The effects of sleep apnea extend far beyond feeling tired during the day. It significantly raises the risk of serious health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and cognitive decline.
Furthermore, disrupted sleep can strain relationships and negatively impact daily life, leading to mood swings and decreased productivity. The good news is that with sleep apnea therapy, effective treatments are available to restore restful sleep, enhance overall well-being, and reduce health risks.
Do You Need Sleep Apnea Therapy in Walnut Creek?
If you struggle with sleep apnea symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Our team at Coliseum Dental offers comfortable, effective treatments, including custom oral appliances. Our commitment to patient-centered care ensures that you receive personalized solutions tailored to your needs.
With advanced technology and modern treatment approaches, our experienced team prioritizes comfort and efficiency in every aspect of your care. We focus on preventive and restorative dentistry to help you achieve better sleep and improved health. Schedule an appointment today to find out how our expertise can help you breathe easier and wake up feeling refreshed.
