If you’re someone who thinks you might be dealing with a sleep disorder known as sleep apnea, it might be time to do something about it. For starters, discovering whether this issue is affecting you (or if something else is causing your exhaustion, etc.) is a wise step. Not sure why this is such a big deal from our perspective? We have a few things for you to remember, so you can more fully understand our sense of urgency and so you can make necessary changes.
#1: Lifestyle Changes Can Help
Remember that it’s not only all about coming in for dental care. Instead, addressing sleep apnea is often about making changes in your life that promote improved breathing while you sleep. For instance, if you carry extra weight, losing the weight will help. If you’re doing anything to over-relax your throat muscles (like drinking alcohol at night) or challenge your breathing (like ignoring allergies), you are making matters worse.
#2: It Can Threaten Your Life
Remember that sleep apnea can actually threaten your life. No, not because of the immediate issue but because of the way it will affect you over time. Eventually, if you avoid treating the problem, it will hurt your body in various ways. It could damage your liver. It could cause cardiac complications. It’s worth addressing.
#3: Treating It Isn’t Just An Option
Granted, you may choose to avoid coming in to talk with us about sleep apnea and your ability to sleep through the night. You may either come to the conclusion that you should do something about your disorder or you might decide you are going to pretend it’s not happening. However, if you want to protect your health and your life, there’s no option. You must treat it to resume your ability to breathe consistently as you sleep.
Protect Yourself By Speaking With Us About Sleep Apnea
If you think snoring and sleep apnea are affecting your health, we encourage you to bring this topic up with us during your next visit. See us for a dental checkup in Ankeny, IA by contacting Dental Impressions to schedule a visit at (515) 965-0230.
