Restore Your Quality Sleep
Are you struggling with disrupted sleep? Sleep apnea might be the culprit, a condition that not only affects your rest but can also have severe health consequences if untreated. Many people endure sleepless nights without realizing sleep apnea could be the cause. Instead of just coping, seek treatment to restore your quality of life.
Dr. Mark Katz, an experienced sleep dentist in Greensboro, NC, can diagnose and treat sleep apnea. Since 1982, Dr. Katz has been helping patients find relief from sleep-related disorders. Contact our Greensboro office at (336) 364-8988 to schedule a consultation and learn more about effective sleep apnea treatments.
What’s Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition often confused with snoring. While snoring is simply the sound of vibrating tissue, sleep apnea involves a blockage of the airway due to overly relaxed soft tissue and tongue muscles. This blockage restricts airflow, causing pauses in breathing and often loud snoring.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Not all snorers have sleep apnea, but heavy snoring is a common symptom. Other symptoms include:
- Loud snoring
- Restless sleep
- Morning headaches
- Decreased libido
- Forgetfulness and mood swings
- Drowsiness while driving
- Choking or gasping for air during sleep
- Sore and dry throat in the morning
- Sleepiness or lack of energy during the day
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact our Greensboro office at (336) 346-8988 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Katz.
Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Leaving sleep apnea untreated can lead to serious health complications, including:
- Weight gain
- Memory problems
- High blood pressure
- Increased complications from diabetes
- Cardiovascular and respiratory system impairments
How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Body
There are several ways that sleep apnea can affect your overall health, such as:
- Circulatory System: Sleep apnea reduces oxygen levels in your blood, stressing your heart and increasing the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and heart attacks.
- Respiratory System: Sleep apnea impacts your respiratory system, potentially leading to conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnea, including:
- Obesity
- Ages 65+
- Small lower jaw
- Large neck
- Large tonsils
- Nasal congestion
- Family history
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a deviated septum cause obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?
A deviated septum can worsen sleep apnea symptoms by narrowing the airway, but it doesn’t directly cause sleep apnea. Surgery to correct a deviated septum may improve snoring, but it isn’t effective for treating OSA alone.
Can sleep apnea cause anxiety?
Sleep apnea can lead to anxiety due to repeated sleep disruptions. Treating one condition may help alleviate the other. Oral appliances can improve anxiety without medication.
Can sleep apnea be cured?
Sleep apnea is typically managed rather than cured, often requiring lifestyle changes and treatments like CPAP machines or oral appliances. Many sleep apnea dentists offer various treatment options tailored to your needs.
Can my insurance cover the cost of my sleep apnea treatment?
Most insurance providers cover part of the treatment costs. Contact your insurance provider for details. Some dental offices may also offer financing options to ensure you get the quality sleep you deserve.
Sleep Better — Get the Help You Deserve
If you’re experiencing fatigue, restlessness, or frequent night awakenings, you may have sleep apnea. Dr. Katz is here to help patients in Greensboro, NC, and surrounding areas, including Winston-Salem, Whitsett, Summerfield, and Kernersville.
Schedule your consultation by calling (336) 346-8988 or filling out our online contact form. Let us help you achieve the restful sleep you deserve!