Understanding Hypopnea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Apnea is a cessation or stoppage of breathing for 10 seconds or more where the patient’s breathing stops until the brain awakens the body to restore normal breathing. Apneic episodes may occur throughout the night, disrupting your sleep and causing health complications in the long run.

Dr. Francisco Marcano at Sarasota Center for General Dentistry has extensive experience in treating sleep-related breathing disorders, including Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), with Oral Appliance Therapy.  If you are in the Sarasota, Florida, area and would like an evaluation to determine whether you would be a candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy, please schedule an appointment with us today. We will help restore your sleep and health to its optimal best.

Symptoms of sleep apnea

A good night’s sleep is vital for your mental and physical health. As we catch some Zzzs, our brain is energized to help us think more clearly and store memories. During sleep, nearly every bodily system performs crucial functions, including facilitating cell growth for tissue repair and releasing hormones to enhance immune function.

If you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), getting healthy sleep is like a pipedream. This sleep condition reduces airflow by more than 30% and decreases oxygen supply to the brain by 3-4% during an attack, resulting in poor sleep quality.

Patients with sleep apnea usually experience numerous unpleasant symptoms, including.

  • Loud snoring
  • Waking up with headaches
  • Poor concentration
  • Dry mouth
  • Gasping for air when sleeping
  • Daytime fatigue
  • Memory loss

Obstructive Sleep Apnea can have devastating effects on your health if not treated. This sleep disorder can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and other systematic conditions. 

Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea with oral appliance therapy 

Our office treats obstructive sleep apnea with a customized oral appliance. A mouthguard-like oral appliance keeps your airway open while sleeping, promoting healthy breathing. When used as directed by your doctor, oral appliance therapy can positively affect your sleep apnea symptoms, helping you improve your sleep, which can lead to a happier, healthier life. The doctor can combine OAT with lifestyle changes, including weight reduction, changing sleeping positions, quitting smoking and alcohol, etc. 

Need Apnea Relief in Sarasota, Florida?

Do you want to improve the quality of your sleep? What about the quality of your life?  Schedule a consultation with Dr. Francisco Marcano to evaluate your sleep-related breathing disorders. Say goodbye to sleepless nights and hello to restful, rejuvenating sleep. Take the first step towards a healthier, happier you by calling (941) 900-3555 to book your appointment today!