You may not associate the dentist with someone you can discuss your sleep problems. However, you can certainly bring it up during your next appointment with Dr. James C. Ross. If you show signs of this common sleep disorder, we can help by creating an oral appliance that keeps your airways open at night. You may not think it’s a big deal, but it interrupts your breathing at night. Left untreated, it can have serious health consequences. We wanted to share a few signs you are struggling with sleep apnea:

  • Daytime Fatigue and Sleepiness –

One of the most common signs of sleep apnea is chronic daytime fatigue, tiredness, and sleepiness. The repeated breathing interruptions prevent you from getting quality rest. So, if you’ve noticed daytime drowsiness or that you fall asleep easily during idle moments, it could point to an underlying sleep apnea disorder

  • Loud Snoring

While snoring isn’t always a sign of sleep apnea, it can be a red flag. Frequent loud snoring, especially when accompanied by gasping or choking sounds, is a major indication of this popular sleep disorder. You may notice that your bed partner’s snoring is the loudest if they are sleeping on their back. There may even be moments 

  • Morning Headaches

Waking up with a headache can signal disrupted sleep from sleep apnea. While researchers aren’t entirely sure why people with this disorder have headaches, it can often be a result of oxygen levels dropping at night due to breathing cessations. If morning headaches occur frequently, schedule an appointment at our practice. We can help you confirm the diagnosis.

  • Irritability and Mood Changes 

Sleep deprivation from sleep apnea can lead to irritability, anxiety, and depression. Poor quality sleep over time impacts your mental health. You don’t want to ignore feelings of irritability or swift mood changes throughout the day. 

  • Dry Mouth

People with sleep apnea typically have a dry mouth due to an unconscious habit of needing to take in more air. If the issue persists, it can lead to a potential issue with your oral health. The lack of saliva production increases your risk for gum disease or cavities.

Sleep apnea signs and symptoms should never be ignored or dismissed. Treating sleep apnea improves sleep quality, reduces morning headaches, stabilizes moods, and increases energy levels and alertness. If you notice potential indications of sleep apnea, don’t be afraid to bring it up at your appointment. We’ll discuss ways we can help you and restore your sleep health.

Call Dr. James C. Ross today at 248-697-2487 or contact us online to schedule an appointment in Novi, MI.