Sleep Apnea Specialist
Glow Orthodontics
Orthodontists located in Chantilly, VA
Do you find yourself snoring loudly or waking up breathless? Sleep apnea affects about 12 million Americans, and it can significantly interfere with the quality of your sleep. At Glow Orthodontics, Dr. Navin Hukmani treats patients with sleep apnea so they can breathe more easily. To book a consultation, call or schedule an appointment online at our practice in Chantillly, VA.
Sleep Apnea Q & A
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a medical condition characterized by interrupted breathing patterns during sleep. Some people with sleep apnea may briefly stop breathing up to 30 times per hour. When this happens, your body naturally wakes to reset your breathing pattern.
The condition can significantly interfere with the quality of your sleep, leading to drowsiness and fatigue during the day.
There are three main types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): the most common form; occurs due to a physical blockage like soft tissue collapse
- Central sleep apnea (CSA): muscles don’t receive proper brain signals, which interferes with breathing
- Mixed or complex sleep apnea: a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Some people with sleep apnea may not even be aware they’re frequently waking during the night, as the breathing disruptions may be short-lived. However, if you have several of the following symptoms, you may have sleep apnea:
- Insomnia
- Loud snoring, choking, or snorting during sleep
- Waking up breathless
- Morning headaches
- Daytime drowsiness
What causes sleep apnea?
Males are more likely to develop OSA than females, and the condition is more common in adults over 40. Some of the most common risk factors for sleep apnea include obesity, drinking alcohol, smoking, sedative use, or having a family history of the condition.
Central sleep apnea is most common in people who have heart or neuromuscular disorders, brain tumors, or strokes.
How is sleep apnea treated?
Treatment for sleep apnea depends on the cause, the type of sleep apnea, and the severity of your symptoms. Some patients may benefit from behavioral changes, like losing weight or sleeping on their sides.
Dr. Hukmani can also provide you with an oral device that positions the mouth to safely prevent breathing blockages. Some patients with the most severe cases may need surgery.
Dr. Hukmani has expertise in treating the orthodontic component of this uncomfortable and disruptive condition so that you can return to normal sleeping patterns and experience the restorative benefits of a good night’s rest.
To request a custom consultation about sleep apnea today, call to make an appointment with Glow Orthodontics.