Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea doesn't just interrupt your sleep. It also obstructs your breathing.

Without treatment, this sleep condition can increase your risk of heart disease, depression, and other health issues.

If your snoring keeps your partner up or interrupts your rest, start sleep apnea treatment with Dr. Ryan K. Austin in South Ogden, Utah.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea refers to breathing interruptions while you are trying to get a full night's rest.

Ideally, when you sleep, your oxygen level will remain the same and your upper airway will remain unobstructed. For those with sleep apnea, the opposite occurs. That can mean trouble breathing, blocked airways, and restless nights.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs more frequently. It arises when your throat muscles slacken, physically blocking the passage of air. Since that action closes up your airway, it can impede your breathing.

Central Sleep Apnea

Central sleep apnea, on the other hand, results from mistaken communication from your mind to your body. Essentially, your brain regulates breathing at uneven intervals, which can make it hard to get the oxygen you need.

What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

Those with sleep disorders often struggle to have a restful night of sleep. If you live with sleep apnea, you may have noticed these troubling symptoms:

Daytime sleepiness
Waking up multiple times a night
Excessive snoring
Dry mouth at night
High blood pressure
Difficulty breathing

Here's the good news: obstructive sleep apnea is a well-recognized condition with multiple treatment options.

You're never too young to experience sleep apnea. It even affects children! So, if you notice any signs or symptoms, visit Dr. Ryan K. Austin in South Ogden, UT.

Which Factors Can Cause Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea can be caused or exacerbated by:

Smoking
Obesity
Taking sedatives
Drinking alcohol

Which Genetic Factors Impact Sleep Apnea?

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Bigger tonsils
An above-average-sized tongue
Narrow palates

How Will My Doctor Diagnose Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea -- and the exhaustion that comes with it -- doesn't have to be a constant in your life. You can find treatment for your central or obstructive sleep apnea and start resting well again.

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Ryan K. Austin or call us at (801) 399-3701.

Consultation

Dr. Ryan K. Austin will discuss your symptoms, risk factors, and other concerns. He'll also ask you how well you sleep. He will account for possible contributing factors or conditions, like high blood pressure or excess weight.

Assessing Situation

If Dr. Austin believes you may have obstructive or central sleep apnea, he will schedule a sleep study. If another issue is causing your sleep disturbances, it can be explored in more detail.

Sleep Study

During the sleep study, doctors will observe how your body acts at rest. That includes recording how your blood oxygen, heart, lungs, and limb function. Ultimately, it will also show the doctors whether you live with sleep apnea.

Still Have Questions? Email Us.

How Can You Treat My Sleep Apnea?

There are two main treatment options used for obstructive sleep apnea.

You may have heard of the first: a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. A CPAP includes a mask to fit over your nose, as well a tube to deliver pressurized air.

If this sounds uncomfortable, you may be a candidate for an alternative option: a custom-fitted mouthguard. It will pull your jaw slightly forward, shifting the soft tissues of your throat and allowing you to sleep safely and soundly.

Fitted Mouthpiece

Sleep apnea mouthpiece — This fitted mouthpiece can improve the breathing of someone who lives with obstructive sleep apnea.

Why Choose Dr. Ryan K. Austin?

If you're suffering from sleep apnea, you have an important decision on your hands. We'll make it a little bit simpler by telling you exactly why Dr. Ryan K. Austin in Ogden, UT, can help with your sleep disorders.

Board Certification

Dr. Austin is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. His qualifications allow him to deliver the caliber of treatment you deserve and can give you the peace of mind as well.