Do you feel tired throughout the day despite sleeping all night? Maybe you’re moodier than usual or your spouse is complaining about your snoring? It might be time to keep a sleep diary to log your symptoms. It can be the first step to diagnosing the cause of your tossing and turning, like sleep apnea. Don’t worry, your sleep specialist can help you get the relief you need with the Vivos System.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
There are 3 main types of sleep apnea; however, the most common is caused by an obstruction in the upper airway. The tongue or soft tissues in the back of the mouth can collapse to block the airway. This can lead to potentially hundreds of interruptions in breathing throughout the night. Not only will it take a toll on your quality of sleep, but also your health and your quality of life.
How Can a Sleep Diary Help?
You can learn a lot about your sleep patterns and habits using a diary. It will contain helpful information to pinpoint the cause of your poor sleep quality. Your diary should include various charts regarding:
- How long you slept.
- When you went to bed.
- How many times did you wake up at night?
- If you consumed caffeine or alcohol.
- What you are and drank.
- If you had any emotional stress.
- What drugs or medications you took?
By logging your sleep patterns, it can help determine if the issues you’re having can be treated by making simple adjustments, like avoiding caffeine before bed or creating a better sleep environment. If the changes at home don’t help, it might be time to see a specialist. In addition to reviewing a sleep study, they can look at your diary to gain a clear picture of what’s keeping you from getting the rest you need.
How is Sleep Apnea Treated?
Traditionally, sleep apnea in Greenfield is treated using a CPAP machine. A mask is worn over the nose to deliver a steady stream of air pressure to keep the upper airway open. It is an effective solution; however, it can be bothersome.
Instead of a CPAP, many patients are turning to oral appliance therapy. The device might look like an athletic mouthguard; however, it’s effective for treating mild-to-moderate forms of obstructive sleep apnea. It repositions your lower jaw forward or holds your tongue in place to keep your airway open.
Breathe Better Today
It’s never too late to start a diary or get treatment for sleep apnea. You can start your journey to an improved sleep quality and better health tonight.
About BGH Dental
BGH Dental is more than just a dental office. Our dental team offers a diverse background in many areas of specialty, including sleep apnea therapy. We use the Vivos system to create quality devices to keep your upper airway open. If you have signs of sleep apnea, contact our office today to schedule your consultation. We look forward to helping you breathe better.