Middle Aged Smiling Woman With Nice Teeth

Sleep Apnea Treatment Farmington NM

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Are you or a loved one suffering from snoring that ‘s causing abnormal sleep patterns? Well, snoring can often be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (or OSA). OSA is a lifelong medical condition that affects somewhere between 18 to 30 million adults. Obstructive sleep apnea has the potential to be a very serious sleep disorder that occurs when muscles that control the tongue and throat become too relaxed during sleep. Your soft tissue may then vibrate (causing snoring) or fully collapse, which can cause you to stop breathing. When breathing is stopped, you awaken suddenly and this can cause terrible sleep patterns. But even worse than losing sleep over OSA, is the potential for life threatening conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease or stroke brought on by the disorder. Sleep apnea can have a significant impact on your quality of life, so why not get help today!

Man Snoring Woman can't sleep

Symptoms and Risk Factors of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

One of the most common signs of OSA is an ongoing and often very noisy snoring. Most patients suffering from the disorder tend to have pauses in breathing while sleeping or snoring, and often gasp for air following the pause. This pattern is often subtle enough to not trigger full alertness but can alter sleep patterns enough to feel tired and groggy after a night’s sleep. Most people suffering from the disorder do not know they have snoring or breathing issues, so they will often rely on their partner or family member for signs of a problem.

Common Symptoms Can Include:

  • Snoring
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Pauses in breathing while sleeping
  • Decreased sex drive

Common Risk Factors Can Include:

  • Hypertension
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
Sleep Apnea Illustration

Custom Oral Appliance

If your treatment calls for it, Dr. Thompson will have a custom oral appliance made for you for the treatment of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The device is worn while sleeping to provide continuous airflow through the mouth and throat. The custom fit dental appliance works by moving the lower jaw slightly forward, tightening soft tissues and muscles that would normally become relaxed and cause the obstruction. Snoring is greatly diminished allowing for a better sleep for you and those around you.

Ready to book your appointment?