SNORING AND SLEEP APNEA
Chronic snoring can be an indicator of a more serious condition called sleep apnea. Sleep apnea causes long interruptions in the breathing cycle. In severe cases, sleep can be interrupted hundreds of times every night. Not only does this severely impact the quality of your sleep, but it can also cause blood oxygen levels to decrease. This increases the amount of work your heart has to do, causing your blood pressure to rise. If sleep apnea goes untreated for a long period of time, it can lead to an enlargement of the heart and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Moderate to severe sleep apnea can be detrimental to good health and carries potential risks. It is important to get tested for sleep apnea if you are a chronic snorer. There are simple take home devices capable of diagnosing apnea and oxygenation.
By wearing a specially designed oral appliance, the jaw position is pulled forward and opens the throat for better breathing and less snoring. Another treatment option can be the c-pap machine.
