What Is Sleep Apnea?

Snoring and chronic sleepiness are both indications that something could be seriously wrong with a person’s breathing during sleep, because they indicate an airway that is not completely open while sleeping. Snoring comes from air pressure within the body being forced through a narrow passageway. It’s a sign of a potentially dangerous sleep disorder called sleep apnea.

Why Is Sleep Apnea A Problem?

Sleep apnea requires careful attention and treatment because it’s a potentially life-threatening condition. If an air passage collapses during sleep, it can cause complete or partial blockage of the airway, interrupting sleep patterns. Symptoms of sleep apnea can include drowsiness during the day, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and depression. If sleep apnea is left untreated, it can result in high blood pressure, heart failure, heart attack, and possibly stroke. Other conditions that can arise from sleep apnea include eye problems like glaucoma, complications with medications and surgery, morning headaches, mood swings, memory problems, and nocturia (the need to urinate frequently at night).

How Can Dental Innovations Hawaii Help?

Don’t be alarmed if you have found sleep apnea to be a problem for you. This condition affects millions of Americans. Here at Dental Innovations Hawaii, it’s our goal to be able to treat every patient troubled by this condition. Dr. Kogafocuses on non-invasive procedures that can solve the condition before suggesting surgery. The first step in treating sleep apnea is to contact us at (808) 484-0600 or send us an email. We’ll schedule a consultation and find a solution for you.