At Anderson Dental, we work with patients to get an accurate diagnosis and plan for effective sleep apnea treatment in Phoenix, AZ. This serious sleep condition can cause several health concerns.
Without treatment, sleep apnea can impact every aspect of your daily life. Risk factors for sleep apnea include being male, being aged 50 and older, having a neck circumference greater than 16 inches, and obesity (BMI greater than 35kg/m2).
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common form of this condition, happens when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, interrupting the normal flow of oxygen through the nose or mouth. In this type of sleep apnea, the throat and mouth muscles relax to the point that they collapse into the upper airway, creating a blockage that restricts breathing.
Far less common, central sleep apnea (CSA) occurs when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe, rather than a physical airway blockage.
Mixed sleep apnea is a complex breathing disorder that involves OSA and CSA. If you suffer from these types of sleep apnea in Phoenix, AZ, it’s essential to visit a sleep doctor and other specialists.
Sleep apnea is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that causes repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night. Without proper treatment, these frequent drops in oxygen place significant strain on the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Disrupted sleep and reduced oxygen levels can also impair brain function, contributing to memory problems, cognitive decline, and even dementia. Sleep apnea can also worsen depression and anxiety, while persistent daytime fatigue raises the risk of workplace and driving accidents. Treating sleep apnea in Phoenix, AZ, isn’t just about sleeping better; it’s about protecting your long-term health and quality of life!
To receive an official diagnosis, you’ll need to visit a certified sleep specialist and undergo an overnight sleep study. During this evaluation, your breathing patterns and body function will be closely examined throughout the night. Some specialists also offer at-home testing, which many patients prefer.
If it’s determined that you have OSA, you may be referred to other specialists to rule out an issue with your nose or throat. Once you’ve received your final results, we encourage you to make an appointment with our sleep apnea dentist, Dr. Lori Anderson.
Most medical insurance companies are beginning to recognize oral appliances as a therapeutic treatment for sleep apnea. It’s important to keep in mind that, for your insurance to cover the cost, a sleep study and a professional diagnosis are required. The best way to find out whether your dental or medical insurance provider covers the cost of an oral appliance is to contact them directly. Our team is happy to do this on your behalf.
As mentioned, sleep apnea can impact how you function in your daily life and even cause additional physical and mental health problems. Paired with chronic fatigue, these effects can make it dangerous to perform daily tasks, such as driving. After you receive a diagnosis, all it takes is a couple of visits to Anderson Dental to improve your quality of life!
