Do I have sleep apnea, or am I just snoring?

While sleep apnea and snoring might seem similar, they are two completely different issues. Today, our Selkirk dentists explains some key differences between them.

Many people who have sleep apnea are unaware of it and make the mistake of thinking they are just snoring - an easy misconception to have because snoring is one of the primary symptoms of sleep apnea. Plus, both snoring and sleep apnea may be related to other health problems. Both can disrupt sleep. 

However, there are some key differences between the two. 

What is snoring?

Essentially, snoring is vibrations in the respiratory structures that occur when air movement is blocked during sleep. Snoring can be caused by the uvula, soft palate, nasal obstructions, a large tongue or other factors. 

While snoring is a symptom of sleep apnea, not everyone who has sleep apnea snores. And of course, many people who snore don't have sleep apnea. 

What is sleep apnea?

This disorder is marked by abnormal pauses in breathing during sleep. These breathing pauses (called apneas) can happen due to physical blockage of airflow, lack of respiratory effort, or a combination of the two. Obstructive sleep apnea (caused by a blockage) is the most common type. 

How can I tell if I have sleep apnea?

People who suffer from sleep apnea are often first made aware of it by their partners, who notice the pauses in breathing.

If you feel fatigued during the day, and notice that your work performance, general vigilance, and ability to stay motivated have gone downhill, it may be a sign that you are experiencing sleep disruptions due to sleep apnea.

The only sure-fire way to determine if you have sleep apnea is to be assessed by a professional. A qualified medical professional can positively diagnose you, and get you the help you need.

Do I need treatment for sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is more than just a nuisance. It carries serious health concerns with it. Those who suffer from this condition fall out of deep sleep when their breathing pauses, resulting in poor quality sleep. It can also trigger the release of stress hormones, change how your body uses energy, and make you feel tired and sleepy during the day. In addition, there are several potential negative health effects of inadequate sleep, such as weight gain, memory loss, skin aging, and more.

Sleep apnea may also lead to a greater risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation, diabetes, certain cancers, and even sudden death.

Once you've been diagnosed by a medical professional, your dentists can help you achieve a better night’s sleep with a variety of treatment options.

If you think you might have sleep apnea, we may be able to answer your questions. Book a consultation with our dentists at Interlake Dental Centre today.