Sleep Apnea 101: Understanding the Condition and Your Treatment Options

Sleep is essential for every aspect of health - yet for many, a restful night remains out of reach. Sleep apnea is a common but serious condition that can affect your energy, mood, health, and overall well-being. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego, we’re committed to helping patients understand this disorder and find solutions tailored to their unique needs.
 

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last from a few seconds to over a minute and occur dozens or even hundreds of times per night. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which happens when the airway becomes blocked leading to breathing pauses.
 

Common Causes of Sleep Apnea

Several factors can contribute to the development of sleep apnea, including:
 

• Anatomical issues (narrow airway, enlarged tonsils, or deviated septum)

• Obesity or excess weight

• Jaw misalignment or TMJ disorders

• Nasal congestion or sinus problems

• Genetic predisposition

• Smoking, alcohol use or sedatives

Symptoms to Watch For

Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed, especially if symptoms are mistaken for general fatigue or stress. Common signs include:
 

• Loud, chronic snoring

• Gasping or choking sounds during sleep

• Insomnia

• Morning headaches

• Excessive daytime sleepiness

• Difficulty concentrating, memory problems or forgetfulness

• Mood swings or irritability

• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

• Frequent heartburn

• Heavy night sweats

• Increased heart rate and/or blood pressure

• Decreased sex drive

How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?

Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study. These studies measure your breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, and other indicators while you sleep. We use advanced diagnostic tools to assess not just your breathing patterns but also the role your jaw and airway anatomy play in the condition.
 

Treatment Options Tailored to You

The right treatment for sleep apnea depends on the severity of your condition and its underlying cause. We offer several personalized treatment options:
 

• CPAP Therapy: The most well-known treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea, CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) keeps the airway open using a steady flow of air. While effective, not all patients tolerate CPAP well, especially those with TMJ issues.

• Custom-Made Orthopedic Appliances: For many patients, a custom-fitted oral appliance offers a less invasive and more comfortable alternative to CPAP. These devices gently reposition the jaw to keep the airway open throughout the night, making them especially useful for those with TMJ dysfunction or mild to moderate sleep apnea.

• Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can reduce soft tissue volume in the throat, enhancing airway openness and reducing the frequency of apneas. This non-invasive approach is ideal for patients with soft tissue obstruction and is performed right in our office.

Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious health complications like heart disease, stroke, and chronic fatigue. At TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego, our multidisciplinary approach means your care plan will address both the cause and symptoms of your condition.
 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego and discover a treatment plan made just for you. Visit our office in La Mesa, California, or call (619) 762-4379 to book an appointment today.