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Snoring every night can be a signal of a serious sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). How do you know when your snoring is a sign of something wrong or when it is just simple snoring? Simple snoring can be caused by allergies, a cold or the flu, obesity, certain medications, or other causes. Obstructive sleep apnea can increase your risks of serious health complications like high blood pressure or heart disease, which makes identifying it important. Your dentist can help you treat sleep apnea in an effort to lower your risk of developing serious complications. Treatment can also help end the snoring so that you and your loved ones can get better sleep. 

Is It Simple Snoring?

Simple snoring occurs when the soft tissues in your throat and mouth partially block your air passage. This blockage causes a vibration that creates a sound like snoring. Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where the airways are blocked by the soft tissues so much that your body nearly suffocates. Your body will unconsciously wake up to try to clear the blockage, breathe, and get oxygen. This is usually not enough to consciously wake your brain for you to remember it, but it can happen multiple times during your sleep.

Risks From Sleep Apnea

While waking up from OSA during your sleep may not be enough for you to remember, it can be enough to prevent you from reaching a full sleep cycle with REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. This lack of restorative sleep can leave you drowsy and moddy. Sleep deprivation can also cause changes in your hormones, which can lead to depression or obesity. When your body gets used to the deprivation of oxygen in your blood caused by the airway blockage, your body may increase your blood pressure. High blood pressure can increase your risks of heart disease and stroke.

Snoring can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris can help you treat OSA. Schedule a consultation at Mansfield Dental Associates by calling 817-473-6227. Located in Mansfield, TX, we also welcome patients and families from all surrounding communities including South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian, and more.