FAQs
Dr. Beck has put together this list of frequently asked questions to help you learn more about sleep apnea, snoring, and your treatment options.
There are a lot of myths and misunderstandings about sleep apnea and snoring. But it’s a significant issue that can have serious medical consequences if left untreated. At TMJ-Sleep Corado, we believe that the more you know about sleep apnea, the better able you’ll be to make the best decision when selecting the appropriate care.
Does everyone with heavy snoring suffer from sleep apnea?
No. Snoring is a sound caused by the vibration made when air passes through tissue. Although snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, millions of people who snore loudly do not suffer from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea, which is usually accompanied by heavy snoring, is a serious condition that can lead to dangerous medical complications if left untreated.
Can Dr. Beck treat my snoring even if I don’t have sleep apnea?
Yes. We feature a number of highly effective treatments for snoring such as our custom-made oral appliances.
Do I need to spend the night in a medical facility to find out if I have sleep apnea?
If you have not been previously diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, Dr. Beck will work with your pcp to facilitate referral for a sleep study. The type of sleep study (at home or in the hospital) will depend on your pcp preferences and your medical insurance guidelines. Should you not have a pcp, Dr. Beck will provide guidance in referral to an ENT or establishing a pcp. It is important that your OSA diagnosis and treatment be supervised by an experienced medical doctor.
What are the risks involved in neglecting to treat my sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea causes your brain and body to get less oxygen while you sleep. In addition to making you tired and irritable during the day, untreated sleep apnea also exacerbates a number of serious medical conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes and increases your chances of suffering from a stroke or heart attack. The daytime drowsiness associated with sleep apnea is also linked to numerous workplace accidents and automobile crashes every year.
How are spouses affected by snoring and sleep apnea?
Spouses and sleep partners often undergo the same daytime problems as people afflicted with snoring and sleep apnea, such as fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Your snoring can keep your partner awake at night and this often adds considerable stress to the relationship.
What types of treatment are available for sleep apnea?
There are a number of effective treatments for sleep apnea, including lifestyle changes, surgery, and devices such as CPAP machines and oral appliances. Dr. Beck often recommends small, noninvasive oral appliances for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea. The first step in getting the right diagnosis and treatment for your sleep apnea is calling our office to arrange your consultation with Dr. Beck.