What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common yet serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. If you snore loudly, experience excessive daytime fatigue, or have difficulty concentrating despite getting a full night’s sleep, you may be suffering from sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea can affect your health in significant ways if left untreated, leading to conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Types of Sleep Apnea

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, caused by the relaxing of throat muscles.

  • Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Involves a communication issue between the brain and the muscles controlling breathing.

  • Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A combination of OSA and CSA.

Identifying the type of sleep apnea you may have is crucial for effective treatment. Whether your condition is caused by a physical blockage, a miscommunication in your brain, or a combination of both, we offer personalized solutions to help you breathe and sleep easier.

sleep apnea doctors providing sleep apnea treatment in Reno, NV

Signs & Symptoms

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea is the first step toward getting the right treatment. While snoring is a common indicator, other symptoms can significantly impact your daily life and long-term health. Here are some key warning signs to watch for:

  • Loud, persistent snoring
  • Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep, often noticed by a partner
  • Gasping for air during sleep
  • Morning headaches
  • Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
  • Irritability or mood changes
  • Difficulty concentrating or memory problems

Experiencing these symptoms? Discover how we diagnose and treat sleep apnea to help you breathe easier and sleep better.

Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a potentially life-threatening condition. Risks associated with untreated sleep apnea include:

  • Heart Disease: People with sleep apnea are at higher risk of heart disease due to the strain caused by repeated drops in oxygen levels​.
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Sleep apnea can worsen or even cause high blood pressure, increasing the risk of long-term health problems.
  • Stroke: The repeated oxygen depletion caused by sleep apnea can contribute to the risk of stroke​.
  • Heart Attack: The interruptions in breathing can trigger heart attacks, particularly in individuals with other heart conditions.
  • Adult Asthma: Sleep apnea can exacerbate asthma, making it harder to control and manage.
  • High Blood Pressure: Sleep apnea increases blood pressure, worsening existing hypertension.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Sleep apnea can affect the body’s ability to regulate glucose levels​.
  • Weight Gain: Poor sleep impacts metabolism and appetite regulation, contributing to weight gain​.
  • Acid Reflux: Sleep apnea can exacerbate or even cause acid reflux​

On The Blog

  • Understanding Sleep Apnea: Fact vs Fiction

    Published On: December 1st, 2023Categories: Sleep Apnea

    Sleep apnea is a common yet often misunderstood sleep disorder. At Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV, we believe in educating our patients with accurate information to promote better health. Today, we're addressing some common myths and facts about sleep apnea to enhance your understanding of this condition. Myth 1: Sleep Apnea is Most [...]

  • Reno Sleep Apnea Treatment For A Better Night Sleep

    Published On: November 1st, 2022Categories: Sleep Apnea

    Do you snore?  Does a loved one hear you gasp for air when you sleep?  Do you feel exhausted during the day, no matter how much sleep you get? If so, you may be suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can have serious consequences for your health if left [...]

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    Sleep Apnea Signs & Symptoms

    Published On: September 23rd, 2020Categories: Sleep Apnea

    Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. Sleep apnea can lead to many serious health problems including heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Many people are unaware that they suffer from the disorder. Do you often feel tired with low energy? Does your spouse hear you [...]

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Ready to take control of your sleep health?

At Sala Family Dentistry, we offer comprehensive, personalized solutions to diagnose and treat sleep apnea, helping you breathe better and live healthier. Schedule a consultation with our team today to start your journey to better sleep.

Call 775-322-2061 To Schedule