How Can I Tell If I Have Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition causing breathing problems while you sleep. It can interfere with your natural sleep cycles and prevent you from getting quality, restful sleep. Many people are unaware that they have sleep apnea because they are asleep when the most obvious of the symptoms occur. 

How do you know if you have sleep apnea? Look for the following signs and symptoms and ask your partner if they’ve noticed any of them as well. 

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea occurs when your airway becomes blocked while you’re sleeping enough that you stop breathing for seconds at a time. The soft tissues of your mouth and throat tend to relax and partially collapse when you sleep, especially when you lay on your back. This causes a blockage to your airway that can lead to snoring and sometimes complete interruptions of your breathing. 

As your brain registers the lack of oxygen, you wake up enough to change positions and resume breathing. You are often completely unaware that you have woken up. But these frequent interruptions to your natural sleep cycles prevents you from getting quality sleep. 

Common Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea 

Sleep apnea is characterized by the following symptoms: 

Treatment for Sleep Apnea 

Sleep apnea can be treated in different ways. Common sleep apnea treatments include: 

Many patients find that an oral appliance is sufficient to stop snoring and improve their breathing at night. Other patients with severe sleep apnea may need a CPAP machine. A sleep study performed by a sleep specialist may offer more information about your individual sleep issues. 

What Should I Do if I Think I Have Sleep Apnea?

If you have any of the signs or symptoms of sleep apnea, contact Queens Crown Dental. We can diagnose sleep apnea and provide you with a custom oral appliance to wear at night to keep your airway open and help you get better quality sleep. Many satisfied patients have found relief from snoring and feel more rested and energized throughout the day. 


Call 808-526-2800 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.