Sleep Apnea & Snoring in Skokie, IL
If you consistently wake up feeling exhausted after a full night’s sleep and others are constantly complaining about your loud snoring, there may be something more serious plaguing you. Sleep apnea is a condition that affects your breathing while you sleep and maybe one of the causes behind your snoring. Dr. Wendy Shorr, who is board certified by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, can help you find out if sleep apnea is the root of your snoring.
Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Snoring is usually linked to obstructive sleep apnea, a disorder in which the airway can be blocked, and breathing can stop for short periods of time while you’re asleep. Snoring doesn’t necessarily mean that you have sleep apnea, but when combined with other symptoms, it may be a sign that it’s time to see your doctor to learn more about sleep apnea and if it is affecting your life.
Some common symptoms to be aware of are:
- Extreme sleepiness during the day.
- Issues concentrating.
- Headaches when waking up.
- Sore throat when waking up.
- High blood pressure.
- Restless sleep.
- Loud snoring.
- Nighttime chest pain.
If you have a partner or friend that can monitor you at night, they should be checking for periods where your breathing has stopped and then restarts abruptly.
When left untreated, sleep apnea can cause long-term effects on your quality of life and your well-being. Sleep apnea raises your risk of heart conditions or stroke, makes it more difficult to concentrate, can cause aggression and frustration issues, and can lead to motor accidents if you’re driving while drowsy.
Snoring Without Sleep Apnea
Even if you don't have sleep apnea, but struggle with snoring and getting a good night's sleep, we can still help! Our oral appliances help keep your jaw in the right position while you sleep to keep your airway open. Keeping your airway open as much as possible will help prevent your snoring and allow you to get the rest you need.