Sleep apnea is a serious chronic condition characterized by pauses in your breaths. If a patient is suffering from this disorder then their breathing may stop and start several times throughout the night. It can lead to breathlessness and a shortage of oxygen in the body. Feel tired even after a good night’s sleep? Tiredness is the most common sleep apnea symptom and it is best to consult your Beaverton dentist if you suffer from it daily. Sleep Apnea could cause serious complications if left unattended. Our dentists at Pacific Northwest Dental have listed sleep apnea causes for better understanding.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Before we get into what causes sleep apnea, let us first gain a basic overview of the sleeping disorder. It is a condition that causes interruptions in your breathing. This condition is classified into three types. Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Complex Sleep Apnea, and Central Sleep Apnea are the three main types of this disease. In time this could complicate and cause other issues such as strokes, heart attacks, heart failure, and even high blood pressure. Just visit your dentist in Beaverton to avoid further complications.
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
Now that we have a better understanding of sleep apnea, let us find out what causes sleep apnea. Your favorite Beaverton dentist has listed some of the common causes for you.
Nasal Blockage
You must take extra precautions if you have a blocked nose. Nasal passage obstruction can cause shortness of breath as well as sleep apnea. You could experience several difficulties while breathing and are more likely to suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. If you experience any such issues then you must get it checked by your dentist in Beaverton immediately.
Weight Gain
Obese people are likely to suffer from this condition. A significant increase in weight can result in a shrunk airway. This is the most common cause of persistent snoring and may even lead to shortness of breath.
Sedatives
Sedatives have also been associated with muscle pain, which can obstruct the airway and cause prolonged breathing pauses. Extreme sedation may also contribute to your sleep apnea. Hence, you must be extremely mindful in situations where you require sedation.
Consumption Of Tobacco
People who are heavy smokers could also be suffering from this condition. Tobacco can cause inflammation in the upper airways. This could cause clogged apneas. If you are using tobacco products on a regular basis, you should see your dentist in Beaverton to get it checked.
Hormonal Issues
Hormonal issues, such as hypothyroidism or acromegaly, can lead to tissue inflammation and increase one’s chances of becoming obese. These typically lead to sleeping issues, causing the person much pain and lethargy.
We hope this blog has provided you with all the relevant information. Looking for the best sleep apnea treatment in Beaverton, OR? Get in touch with our team of dental experts at Pacific Northwest Dental today! You can choose from our wide range of dental care services.