Do You Have Questions About Sleep Apnea?

ROANOKE, Texas - Jan. 13, 2014 - PRLog -- According to the National Sleep Foundation, over 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea (http://www.wagerevans.com/services/snoring). As a result, millions experience sleep deprivation, unable to focus at work or school. In addition, sleep apnea can lead to an increased risk of serious medical complications. What causes sleep apnea? How do I know if I exhibit the signs of sleep apnea?Reno NV dentist (http://www.wagerevans.com), Dr. William Wager, answers common questions about sleep apnea.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea

Question: What is sleep apnea?

Answer: Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that causes people to stop breathing for brief periods in the night. In most cases, soft tissue in the back of the throat block airflow, causing the individual to stop breathing. The brain then becomes deprived of oxygen, waking the patient to start breathing. This sleep-wake cycle can occur hundreds of times each night.

Question: What factors lead to sleep apnea?

Answer: A variety of factors can lead to sleep apnea, including weight gain, age, bone structure, and even large tongue or tonsils.

Question: What are the common symptoms of sleep apnea?

Answer: Your Reno NV dentist understands that many people exhibit multiple symptoms of sleep apnea, but these symptoms may not appear related. Common signs of sleep apnea include: Snoring, waking up gasping or choking, trouble focusing, daytime drowsiness, and depression. Without treatment, patients with sleep apnea may develop high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Question: What can I do to reduce sleep apnea symptoms?

Answer: There are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to help ease sleep apnea symptoms. If your obesity is the source of your sleep apnea issues, try losing weight and exercising regularly. In addition, avoid alcohol or caffeine before bed and keep your room dark and cool. Always maintain a regular sleep cycle, waking and going to bed at the same times everyday, even on weekends. If symptoms persist, Reno NV dentist, Dr. William Wager, can recommend an array of treatment options.

About Wager-Evans Dental:

Dr. William Wager practices general dentistry and dental sleep medicine, the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea via oral appliances, in Reno, Sun Valley, Sparks, Spanish Springs, and the surrounding areas. Call Wager Evans Dental (https://www.facebook.com/WagerEvansDental/info) today at (775) 829-7700 to learn more about sleep apnea and how our advanced treatments can help you sleep better.