Is Snoring A Sign Of Sleep Apnea?

Do you often snore? If so, you could be experiencing the possible symptoms of a serious sleep disorder, as well as preventing your significant other from resting as well. Fortunately, we can identify and treat obstructive sleep apnea, helping you enjoy deep, uninterrupted sleep.

Try Our Quiz on Snoring and Sleep Apnea

1. True or False: Snoring can be a warning sign.
2. True or False: Sleep apnea occurs when our breathing is interrupted.
3. True or False: We can address the issue with an oral appliance.

Answer Key

1. True. Snoring occurs when our airways are partially blocked by collapsed soft tissue. As air is forced through, the soft tissue vibrates and makes that lovely sound we associate with snoring. Since obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airways are completely blocked, this means snoring could be a warning sign. Other warning signs include dry mouth, daytime drowsiness, episodes of gasping or choking for air in the night, and moodiness.
2. True. Episodes develop when the soft tissues in the back of our throat and mouth collapse during sleep. The airways are blocked and the patient stops breathing. Once the brain registers the drop in oxygen, the patient is woken up. While the patient may not remember waking, this can happen hundreds of times in the night.
3. True. An oral appliance looks like a nightguard and is worn as we sleep. The device actually moves the jaw forward slightly, just enough to prevent soft tissues from blocking airflow. Breathing remains uninterrupted and patients can enjoy the deep sleep needed to remain healthy and alert. If you have any questions or concerns about treating sleep apnea, then please contact our office today.

ABOUT YOUR PALATINE, IL, COSMETIC DENTIST:

Dr. Brent Engelberg and our highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including: Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.