How do I get a sleep study?
Nighttime Symptoms
It occurs when breath ceases during the normal sleep cycle. People often choke and gasp for air as a result of these attacks. However, many people are unaware of these symptoms as they occur during sleep. Similarly, snoring may be unknown to people who live alone or with others who are not bothered by the noise.
But people with sleep apnea might notice other symptoms at night. They may wake up frequently. Often, they attribute waking to other causes like nightmares or having to urinate. Certainly, the elevated heart rate and sweating that can come with it lend credibility to belief that a nightmare was the cause.
Daytime Symptoms
This makes it important to understand the daytime symptoms of this common condition.
Daytime symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Frequent morning headaches
- Often waking with a sore throat of dry mouth
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Dozing off while working, watching TV, or driving
- Concentration and memory problems
These daytime hints should not be ignored. Not only do they diminish your quality of life, they are putting your life at risk. People with sleep apnea are at an elevated risk for dangerous and deadly car accidents.
Illnesses Associated with Sleep Apnea
Another way to track down sleep apnea is by awareness of illnesses associated with the condition. Going untreated can result in:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Mood swings
- Depression and anxiety
- Increased aggression
When you experience these conditions, you should consider that you may have sleep apnea. You should also be aware of common misdiagnoses. If your doctor diagnoses you with low testosterone, hypothyroidism, chronic fatigue, or other similar conditions, then you should talk to your doctor about sleep apnea.
This condition also increases risks for heart attack and stroke, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. To reduce these risks and restore a good night’s sleep, treating it is essential.
Our Fairfax dentist utilizes advanced treatment methods to keep airways open and allow for uninterrupted sleep. The best way to learn if one of these noninvasive, customized treatment options is right for you is by calling 703-323-8200 and scheduling a consultation. If you are not certain that you have sleep apnea, Dr. Marzban can provide you with the WatchPAT™ in-home diagnostic tool to help you determine if treatment will be necessary.
Please call 703-323-8200 or contact our Fairfax sleep apnea dentist to schedule your consultation today. Dr. Marzban serves all of Fairfax County from our conveniently located Burke office.
