Sleep is essential for overall health, yet millions of people struggle to get quality rest due to sleep apnea. This common but serious sleep disorder causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, often without the person even realizing it. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to fatigue, heart disease, diabetes, and other long-term health complications. Fortunately, modern sleep apnea treatment options are highly effective and increasingly accessible. If you are seeking sleep apnea treatment Rancho Cucamonga, understanding the causes, symptoms, and solutions is the first step toward better sleep and improved well-being.
Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much and block the airway. Less common forms include central sleep apnea, caused by improper brain signals, and complex sleep apnea, a combination of both.
Because these breathing interruptions can happen dozens or even hundreds of times per night, the body never reaches deep, restorative sleep. As a result, individuals often wake up feeling exhausted despite spending enough time in bed.
Several factors can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea. These include:
Many people are surprised to learn that oral and jaw structure plays a significant role in sleep apnea. This is where a dentist can play an important role in diagnosis and treatment.
Sleep apnea symptoms can vary, but common signs include: