Sleep Apnea Explained: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Sleep is essential to our health, happiness, and relationships. But for many, sleep disorders like sleep apnea silently disrupt restful nights, leading to long-term health problems if left undiagnosed. At Springcrest Dental Associates, we believe “your smile and your health matter.” Our commitment to comprehensive, compassionate care means our team pays close attention. Not just to your teeth, but to the whole picture of your well-being, including quality sleep.

In this article, we want to explain sleep apnea in clear, approachable terms so you can take confident steps toward better health.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common yet often overlooked sleep disorder that causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These breathing pauses, sometimes lasting seconds or even up to a minute, reduce oxygen levels in the body and force your brain to repeatedly wake you in order to resume normal breathing. Over time, untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of stroke. Many people living with sleep apnea are unaware of the condition, making awareness and early diagnosis critically important for long-term health.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are three primary forms of sleep apnea, each with its own underlying causes:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

By far the most common type, OSA occurs when the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses and blocks the airway during sleep. This physical blockage leads to the characteristic cycle of snoring and frequent awakenings.

Central Sleep Apnea

Less common, this type is caused by a problem with the brain’s signals to the muscles that control breathing, not a physical blockage.

Complex (Mixed) Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Some individuals experience a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea, also known as complex or mixed sleep apnea syndrome.

Learn more about obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) from Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Recognizing the signs of sleep apnea is the first step toward reclaiming better rest and health. Common symptoms include:

• Loud, persistent snoring (often noticed by loved ones)
• Choking or gasping for air during sleep
• Episodes of breathing pauses observed by others
• Daytime sleepiness or feeling unrefreshed after sleep
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Difficulty concentrating, “brain fog,” or forgetfulness
• Mood changes such as irritability, anxiety, or depression
• Waking with a dry mouth or sore throat
• Morning headaches

Because many of these symptoms can seem unrelated, sleep apnea is often missed or mistaken for other issues.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can develop from a combination of anatomical, neurological, and lifestyle factors:

• Anatomical Issues: A naturally narrow airway, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, large tongue, or certain jaw shapes may predispose someone to obstructive sleep apnea.
• Neurological Control: In central sleep apnea, the brain fails to consistently send signals to the breathing muscles.
• Lifestyle Contributors: Obesity, alcohol use (which relaxes throat muscles), smoking, and chronic nasal congestion can all raise the risk of airway blockages during sleep.

At Springcrest Dental Associates, we approach your health comprehensively, always reviewing medical histories to catch potential sleep and airway concerns others may miss. In fact, Dr. Rutledge shares, “A favorite story is recently we had a patient who... had never had a sleep test. I encouraged her to speak with her physician... During that sleep test, they found her oxygen levels dipped to the 50% range while she was sleeping at night. With that one conversation and recommendation, we were able to identify an issue and help her stay here longer to enjoy more time with her loved ones.”

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain

Sleep apnea and weight gain often go hand-in-hand, each increasing the risk of the other. Excess body weight, especially around the neck, can narrow the airway and promote obstructive sleep apnea. At the same time, untreated sleep apnea interrupts deep, restorative sleep, disrupting hormones that control appetite, metabolism, and fat storage. People with OSA are more likely to experience daytime fatigue, which may make regular exercise difficult, further fueling weight gain. Managing weight and treating sleep apnea are both essential for breaking this cycle and improving your overall well-being.

Sleep Apnea Risk Factors

While sleep apnea can affect anyone, including children and adults, some factors increase risk:

• Age: While it can develop at any age, risk increases as we get older.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop sleep apnea, especially OSA.
• Family History: Genetics can influence airway anatomy and risk.
• Comorbid Conditions: High blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain hormonal disorders elevate risk.
• Lifestyle: Obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and chronic nasal congestion contribute significantly.

By thoroughly reviewing your health history, something our patients praise as a hallmark of our approach, we can help you understand your individual risk factors during your next visit.

Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea

A diagnosis of sleep apnea begins with a medical history and evaluation of symptoms. If sleep apnea is suspected, your provider may recommend a sleep study (polysomnography), an overnight test that tracks breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain activity while you sleep. In some cases, a home sleep apnea test may be appropriate and more convenient, allowing you to collect data in your own bed.

Once the data is evaluated, your provider will confirm the diagnosis, determine the severity of your sleep apnea, and help build an effective treatment plan.

Read more about diagnosis and sleep studies from Mayo Clinic.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

Treating sleep apnea is essential for your heart, brain, energy, and longevity. Options include:

CPAP Therapy

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) remains the gold standard for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. A CPAP machine keeps your airway open during sleep via a flow of gentle air through a mask.

Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea

For those who struggle with or cannot tolerate CPAP, Springcrest Dental Associates offers advanced oral appliance therapy. These custom-fit dental devices gently reposition the jaw and tongue to keep your airway open, providing a quiet, comfortable, and portable alternative. No bulky facemask or power required. Dr. Rutledge individually evaluates each patient to find the ideal device and fit for their needs.

Explore comfortable, dentist-provided sleep solutions at Springcrest Dental Associates.

Additional Therapies

• Positional Therapy: Training yourself to sleep on your side instead of your back can reduce symptoms for some.
• Weight Management: Even a modest weight loss can lead to significant improvement.
• Surgical Options: In rare cases, surgery to correct structural airway issues may be recommended.

A personalized, comprehensive care plan, like what you’ll receive at Springcrest Dental Associates, maximizes comfort, success, and your quality of life.

Snoring Solutions: More Than Just a Nuisance

While many people snore, not all snoring means you have sleep apnea. Simple snoring often results from relaxed throat muscles and can be addressed with lifestyle measures or dental snoring devices. However, loud, persistent, or disruptive snoring, especially with choking or gasping, can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea and should not be ignored. Dental snoring appliances, weight loss, and adjusting sleep positions are just a few ways our team supports better, quieter sleep for families.

Learn more about our sleep and snoring device options.

Sleep Hygiene Tips

Good sleep habits form the foundation for restorative, healthy sleep, even in those managing sleep apnea. Consider these sleep hygiene tips:

• Keep a consistent bedtime and wake time.
• Create a cool, quiet, and dark sleep environment.
• Avoid screens and caffeine in the hour before bed.
• Prioritize relaxation with gentle routines (reading, soft music, or light stretching).
• Avoid alcohol close to bedtime, as it can worsen airway relaxation.
• Encourage open conversation with your provider about nighttime symptoms and morning fatigue.

Personalized advice and encouragement, including specific guidance during our comprehensive exams, are always available at Springcrest Dental Associates.

Complications of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Left untreated, sleep apnea can take a toll on nearly every body system and relationship:

• Cardiovascular Risks: Higher rates of high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke
• Type 2 Diabetes: Poor sleep impacts glucose control and increases diabetes risk
• Mood and Memory: Increases risk for depression, anxiety, and memory issues
• Accidents and Focus: Daytime drowsiness raises the risk of car accidents and work mistakes
• Relationships: Loud snoring and fatigue can strain family and partner relationships

Early intervention and ongoing management can help prevent these risks, helping you live your healthiest, happiest life.

Take the Next Step: Better Sleep Awaits in Jackson, MI

At Springcrest Dental Associates, our promise is simple: “Where you and your smile matter!” We invite you to experience truly comprehensive care, where your individual history, concerns, and goals are always the foundation of your treatment plan. If you or a loved one live with loud snoring, chronic fatigue syndrome, or other sleep apnea symptoms, do not wait.

Reach out for an evaluation or book a sleep apnea consultation with us. Let us walk alongside you, every step of the way, as you rediscover restful sleep and lifelong wellness, the kind you would wish for every member of your own family.

For more information about our approach to sleep apnea, or to explore our advanced dental sleep therapy options, visit Springcrest Sleep Solutions at Springcrest Dental Associates.

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