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How do I know if I have sleep apnea? | Asheville, NC

Snoring may be more than just a sleep habit: it can be an indicator of an underlying health issue that can sometimes be detrimental to overall physical health and well being.

Patients who snore may have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition which causes a patient to stop breathing momentarily during sleep and then resume breathing with a loud snore. During these apnea episodes patients with OSA are at risk of developing irregular heart rhythms and reduced oxygen flow to vital organs, including the brain. Snoring can truly be a sign of a serious long term health risk. Patients who think they may have sleep apnea should contact their physician for a diagnosis. If diagnosed, Dr. Miller can be a valuable member of their support team.

Symptoms of OSA:

  • Sleepiness or fatigue during the daytime
  • Dry mouth or sore throat upon awakening
  • Headaches in the morning
  • Trouble concentrating, forgetfulness, depression, or irritability
  • Night sweats
  • Restlessness during sleep
  • Snoring
  • Sudden awakenings with a sensation of gasping or choking
  • Difficulty getting up in the mornings

Dr. Miller offers oral appliance therapy for OSA patients: a customized oral device that is worn during sleep to help keep the airway open and prevent the sudden cessation of breathing and resulting snoring. Many patients prefer this type of therapy to using a machine device such as the CPAP- it is more convenient and comfortable in most cases.

Snoring can be detrimental to your daily life and also present health risks: if you or your partner snore it is important to schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller in his Asheville dental office. Get the treatment – and relief- you need for a good night’s sleep and a healthy life!