Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, occurs when the airways are physically blocked by the soft tissues of the throat. This collapse is caused by a number of reasons, though one of the most common is the improper orientation of the jaw.
For many patients and their spouses, this may seem like a minor annoyance, as the condition may only manifest as loud snoring throughout the night. At the Worthington practice of Dr. Nicholas Terse, we help patients overcome OSA through oral appliances, and have made this guide to help patients understand why it is so important to seek treatment for this condition.
Effect on Wellbeing
One of the first things many patients and their loved ones will notice when experiencing OSA is a change in temperament. The loss of restful sleep caused by sleep apnea can lead to inconsistencies in mood and the development of signs of depression. If patients have already been diagnosed with depression, sleep apnea can exacerbate conditions.
The failure to achieve full sleep also makes it difficult for patients to remain focused during the day and can make activities such as the operation of other motor vehicles dangerous.
Physical Side Effects
In addition to mental effects of OSA, sleep apnea can have a long lasting impact on physical health. Sleep disordered breathing takes a toll on the heart, as it attempts to make up for the lack of oxygen in the blood by pumping harder. This continual effort makes patients more likely to experience cardiac complications, as well increased chance for stroke.
Physical fatigue is another common symptom among those who experience sleep apnea. With the lack of oxygen in their system, patients wake up without their regular strength and do not have the energy for healthy activity.
Sleep Apnea Treatment through Appliances
Dr. Nicholas Terse is committed to providing patients with the support necessary to achieve restful sleep through minimally invasive care. We work with our patients’ primary physicians to determine whether they are candidates for sleep apnea appliance therapy, and provide with treatment customized to enhance patients’ comfort and ability to sleep.
To learn more about OSA treatment through oral appliances, contact Dr. Terse and our team today.