Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea robs people of vitality, health, and sometimes life itself.  If you suffer from sleep apnea, you are very likely to fall asleep anywhere and everywhere, even while driving.  Heavy snoring disrupts your sleep and that of your family.  Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is surprisingly common, debilitating potentially fatal, treatable and frequently unrecognized.  You don’t have to waste your prime years; treatment for sleep apnea can restore health and vigour so you can have the energy to do the things you enjoy in your life.

Snoring Is Not Necessarily Sleep Apnea

It is important to distinguish between snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Many people snore but they don’t have sleep apnea. It’s estimated that approximately 30% to 50% of the population snores at one time or another.  Still, loud habitual snoring is usually a precursor to OSA.  Even a social inconvenience like snoring can require treatment, and there are several options available to chronic snorers at Cornell Dental Centre.

Identifying and Treating OSA

Unlike simple snoring, obstructive sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires medical attention. The risks of undiagnosed OSA include heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, heart disease and decreased libido. In addition, OSA causes daytime drowsiness that can result in accidents, lost productivity and interpersonal relationship problems. The symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe.  If you have the above symptoms, please contact Cornell Dental Centre, and we’ll determine if you have sleep apnea!