Sleep Apnea Treatment in Millbrae and South San Francisco
Are you drowsy during the day with no explanation? Do you snore loudly or wake up breathless in the middle of the night? If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be one of more than 12 million Americans who are affected by sleep apnea.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition in which your breathing stops periodically during sleep, as many as 20-30 times per hour. Each time you stop breathing in your sleep, the resulting lack of oxygen alerts your brain, which temporarily wakes you up to restart proper breathing. Since the time spent awake is so brief, most people with sleep apnea don't remember it, and many believe they are getting a good night's sleep when, in fact, they are not. The constant wake-sleep, wake-sleep cycle prevents those with sleep apnea from achieving deep sleep, resulting in a constant drowsy feeling during the day.
What are the signs of sleep apnea?
The following symptoms can indicate the presence of sleep apnea. If you notice one or more of these, contact our practice.
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- Loud snoring at night
- Waking up at night short of breath
- Snorting or choking sounds during the night (indicating a restart of breathing)
- Headaches upon waking in the morning
- Falling asleep unintentionally during the day
- Extreme drowsiness throughout the day
Are there different types of sleep apnea?
There are three categories of sleep apnea. The most common is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and occurs due to a physical blockage, usually the collapsing of the soft tissue in the back of the throat. Less common is central sleep apnea (CSA), in which breathing stops because the muscles involved don't receive the proper signal from the brain. And some people suffer from "mixed" or "complex" sleep apnea, which is a combination of obstructive and central.
What are risk factors for sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in males than females, and more common in older adults (40+) than younger adults and children. However, anyone — regardless of gender or age — can suffer from sleep apnea. Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, drinking, use of sedatives or tranquilizers, and family history. Central sleep apnea strikes most often in people with heart disorders, neuromuscular disorders, strokes, or brain tumors.
Is sleep apnea dangerous?
Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem and if left untreated it can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. The ongoing state of fatigue caused by sleep apnea can lead to problems at work or school, as well as danger when driving or operating heavy machinery. Sleep apnea can also cause complications with medication or surgery; sedation by anesthesia can be risky, as can lying flat in bed after an operation. If you know or suspect you suffer from sleep apnea, let your family doctor know before taking prescribed medication or having surgery.
How is sleep apnea treated?
Treatments for sleep apnea depend on the severity of each individual case, and the type of apnea. Basic treatment can be behavioral — for instance, patients are instructed to lose weight, stop smoking, or sleep on their sides instead of on their backs. Beyond that, oral devices can be used to position the mouth in such a way that prevents throat blockage. In more severe cases, surgery may be the best option.
Dela Rama Dental offers effective sleep apnea treatment at our Millbrae and South San Francisco office. We pinpoint the exact causes to create a custom treatment plan just for you.
Schedule an appointment today.
What are the expected results of sleep apnea treatment?
Sleep apnea isn’t something you could ignore. It’s a treatable condition that, when addressed properly and in a timely manner, can result in:
- Improved Sleep
You can start getting a good night’s sleep again, resulting in greater energy throughout the day. - Improved Quality of Life
Treatment doesn’t just stop snoring. It also alters other bad habits that contribute to the condition. - Improved Physical Health
Sleep apnea treatment may result in reduced cardiovascular risk and better control of hypertension.
What should I do if I suspect that someone in my family suffers from sleep apnea?
Contact our practice, and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist. The specialist may recommend a sleep study to diagnose the precise extent of the problem, and can prescribe appropriate treatment. Depending on your situation, treatment may involve an oral device that we can custom-create for you.
Why Choose Us?
Dela Rama Dental delivers comprehensive and empathetic dental care in South San Francisco and in Millbrae. We’re a member of the Chamber of Commerce in both cities. More importantly, we treat all patients with clinical excellence. As a result, many of our patients are second and third generation patients from families who’ve trusted our services for over three decades.
About Our Dentists
Dr. Bonita goes beyond meeting the dental needs of her patients. She establishes a personal connection with each one of them.
Dr. Andrew finds satisfaction in seeing his patients’ face light up after treatment. He’s dedicated to making each one smile confidently.
Dr. Marjorie is inspired by bright, healthy smiles. She makes sure each patient makes educated decisions that restore their beautiful smile.
Our dental team is set on making you smile as happily and confidently as you can. We make sure you leave with a satisfied and rewarding feeling after every visit. Let’s discuss your unique dental needs.
Book an Appointment with Us
We pride ourselves on quality dental services at a fair cost. Our clinics offer the same high level of care. Schedule an appointment today.
- Millbrae
(650) 239-9627
120 S El Camino Real #19, Millbrae, CA 94030 - South San Francisco
(650) 878-0651
3540 Callan Blvd #201, South San Francisco CA 94080
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