Sleep apnoea is a condition, which causes breathing difficulties when you sleep. It can be very dangerous and potentially fatal so it is important that is it managed properly. At City Dental Leeds we understand the importance of a good night’s sleep and we can help to manage sleep apnoea effectively.
What causes sleep apnoea?
The main risk factor for sleep apnoea is being overweight or obese. Sleep apnoea is more common in men and tends to affect people over the age of 40 years old. Taking sedatives can increase the risk of sleep apnoea and drinking alcohol can make the problem worse.
What can be done for sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea is a serious condition, which disrupts breathing during sleep. Thankfully, there are solutions, which can help to control sleep apnoea and reduce symptoms. In cases where sleep apnoea is related to obesity, making lifestyle changes can make a massive difference; this may include losing weight, changing your diet, doing more exercise and steering clear of cigarettes and alcohol.
Another treatment option for more severe cases is breathing apparatus, which is used to help you breathe more easily during the night. A type of treatment called continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, is often used and it involves the individual wearing a mask during the night.
We can also offer dental appliances to help combat sleep apnoea. An appliance called a mandibular splint helps to improve breathing by holding the lower jaw in a forward position, which increases air flow by keeping the airway open.
Tags: Alcohol, Breathing Apparatus, Overweight, Sleep apnoea Leeds
