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Snoring and Sleep Apnoea

Three types of sleep apnoea can cause related risks, but each has unique potential causes.

• Obstructive sleep apnoea.
  The narrowing of the upper airways results in the muscles relaxing (or surrounding tissues that press down the windpipe) when you’re sleeping, which then blocks airflow and disrupts breathing that typically is accompanied by loud snoring.
  
  
• Central sleep apnoea.
  This less common type of sleep apnoea occurs when the brain fails to send signals to the muscles that control breathing. As a result, a person with this sleeping disorder may stop taking breaths for a few seconds at a time. An underlying health condition, such as congestive heart failure or stroke, usually causes it. However, snoring in central sleep apnoea may not be as prominent as with obstructive sleep apnoea.
  
  
• Mixed or complex sleep apnoea.
  This is an uncommon type of apnoea that is a combination of both obstructive sleep apnoea and central sleep apnoea .

The signs and symptoms of the two types of snoring and sleep apnoea can be difficult to identify because they overlap. Nevertheless, the most common warning indications of the condition may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Loud snoring.
  Indeed, sometimes it can be hard to know if you snore during your sleep. But having someone beside you can help to confirm if you make loud noises or snore at night.
  
  
• Dry mouth or sore throat.
  If you snore, you may wake up with a dry mouth because of an open mouth. At the same time, a lack of moisture in the upper airways can cause a sore throat.
  
  
• Headaches.
  The lack of enough oxygen flow can dilate blood vessels in the brain, which can result in painful headaches.
  
  
• Difficulty breathing.
  This sign may be hard to know since it happens in your sleep. But the episodes of pauses in breathing can wake you at night.
  
  
• Exhaustion.
  Having sleep disturbance or not getting enough sleep at night can make you feel fatigued throughout the day.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential that you seek medical attention right away to evaluate your situation and get treatment.

Many individuals suffer from snoring and sleep apnoea without even knowing it, which can be dangerous for their overall well-being. These conditions can disrupt the quality of sleep and reduce one’s energy.

Studies show that unmanaged snoring and sleep apnoea may increase the risk of stroke and type II diabetes. Moreover, the sudden drop in blood oxygen levels may increase blood pressure and tension in the cardiovascular system. This can make sleep apnoea escalate the risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. Proper diagnosis and management are important to reduce the potential complications of the condition.

Managing sleep apnoea and snoring at home is possible, and the first step typically involves making lifestyle and behavioural changes. These may include avoiding alcohol and certain medications, exercising regularly, modifying sleep positions, and making medication changes.

Additionally, you may also benefit from losing weight through a balanced diet, light physical activity, and dietary supplements. Taking these steps may help improve the quality of one’s breathing. However, they may not be enough to eradicate the condition. Consulting your dentist at Magical Smiles Bacchus Marsh is important.

It’s possible to prevent snoring and sleep apnoea, depending on your potential risk factors, particularly in cases of excess weight or obesity. Here are some possible ways you can lower your risk of sleep apnoea:

• Have good sleep hygiene.
  Make your bedroom quiet, relaxing, and dark. Make sure you have good air ventilation and put away any electronic gadgets.
  
  
• Manage your health conditions.
  If you have high blood pressure, type II diabetes, and high cholesterol, we recommend getting medication and consulting your healthcare provider. They may advise you on possible ways to reduce your snoring and sleep apnoea risk.
  
  
• Maintain a healthy weight.
  As we’ve mentioned, being overweight can make you more prone to snoring and developing certain sleep disorders. Try to eat healthily.
  
  
• Regular health check.
  Make an appointment with your dentist and healthcare provider to monitor your overall health.

Unfortunately, central sleep apnoea may be less likely to be prevented as it is often related to brain function. Nevertheless, consulting your health professionals is essential for detecting potential problems as soon as possible and keeping yourself in good shape.