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Different Types of Sleep Apnea & Their Symptoms

You may have heard of a condition called sleep apnea, but you aren’t sure what it entails. It’s a common complaint among Georgians, and for good reason. Sleep apnea is a condition that causes a person’s breathing to stop and start again in intervals. Because of this, a person’s sleep and their health-related quality of life is negatively affected.

If you suffer from sleep apnea, call us today to discuss treatment options: 706-549-5033.

Consider the different types of sleep apnea – complex, central, and obstructive:

  • Complex sleep apnea is a combination of both central and obstructive sleep apnea. This type is not as common as other types of apnea but can have substantial negative effects on your health.
  • Central sleep apnea has to do with your brain. Your brain must send signals to your throat muscles to help regulate your breathing. When it fails to do so or doesn’t send the right signals, central sleep apnea is the result.
  • Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of apnea, and it deals mainly with the throat. When your throat muscles do not act as they should, it prevents you from taking deep breaths; thus, loud snoring and other frustrating symptoms occur.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

There are many symptoms of sleep apnea. Consider the following:

  • Abrupt awakenings
  • Depression or irritability
  • Difficulty focusing during the day
  • Headache
  • High blood pressure
  • Insomnia
  • Lack of restful sleep
  • Loud snoring
  • Waking up with a dry mouth, sore throat, or chest pain

It’s important to note that you do not have to experience all of the above symptoms to be diagnosed with sleep apnea. If you have even one of the symptoms listed above, call your oral surgeon today.

How Your Oral Surgeon Can Help

If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, Dr. Tomlinson can discuss different treatment options. Two options that many people have found effective include corrective jaw surgery and the use of a continuous positive airway pressure machine. Dr. Tomlinson will gladly answer all of your questions! Schedule an appointment today: 706-549-5033.