Do I Have Sleep Apnea

Do you often wake up feeling tired, even after a full night’s sleep? Have family members told you that you snore loudly or gasp for air while sleeping? If so, you may be experiencing sleep apnea—a common but often undiagnosed sleep disorder. Millions of Americans live with sleep apnea, yet many don’t realize they have it until symptoms begin affecting their health and quality of life. 

At Hathorne Family Dental, Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry and our team are committed to helping patients recognize the signs of sleep apnea and explore treatment options that improve sleep, health, and overall well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what sleep apnea is, how to recognize it, and what you can do if you think you may have it. 

What is Sleep Apnea? 

Sleep apnea is a disorder that interferes with normal breathing patterns during sleep. These interruptions—called apneas—can last for a few seconds to over a minute and may occur dozens or even hundreds of times in a single night. While you may not fully wake up during each episode, your body is jolted out of restorative deep sleep as it struggles to restore airflow. This disruption prevents you from achieving the rest your body needs to repair and recharge.

There are three main forms of sleep apnea. 

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) 

The most common type, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, occurs when the throat muscles relax too much, causing soft tissue to collapse and block the airway. 

• Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) 

Less common, Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) is the result of the brain failing to send the right signals to the breathing muscles. 

• Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome 

Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome combines both conditions and can be especially difficult to manage. Regardless of type, all forms of sleep apnea prevent your body from getting the oxygen it needs while you sleep. 

SLEEP APNEA IS MORE THAN JUST SNORING—IT IS A SERIOUS CONDITION THAT INTERRUPTS BREATHING, DISRUPTS SLEEP, AND IMPACTS OVERALL HEALTH. 

Why Sleep Apnea Shouldn’t Be Ignored 

Sleep apnea is more than just loud snoring. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including: 

• High blood pressure 

• Heart disease and stroke 

• Type 2 diabetes 

• Daytime fatigue and accidents 

• Memory and concentration problems 

• Depression and mood changes 

Recognizing and treating sleep apnea early can dramatically improve your health and quality of life. 

Common Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea 

You may wonder, “Do I have sleep apnea?” Here are the most common red flags: 

• Loud, chronic snoring 

• Gasping, choking, or snorting during sleep 

• Pauses in breathing noticed by a bed partner 

• Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat 

• Morning headaches 

• Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia) 

• Daytime sleepiness, fatigue, or irritability 

• Trouble concentrating or memory issues 

• Restless sleep or frequent awakenings 

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea 

Certain factors make you more likely to develop sleep apnea. These include: 

• Being overweight or obese 

• Having a large neck circumference 

• Being male (though women are also affected, especially after menopause) 

• Older age 

• Family history of sleep apnea 

• Alcohol or sedative use 

• Smoking 

• Nasal congestion or chronic sinus problems 

How Sleep Apnea Affects Daily Life 

Untreated sleep apnea doesn’t just impact your nights—it affects your days, too. Patients often describe: 

• Struggling to stay awake at work or school 

• Falling asleep while watching TV or reading 

• Increased irritability and mood swings 

• Decreased productivity and focus 

• Strained relationships due to loud snoring 

This cycle of poor sleep and daytime fatigue can feel overwhelming, but the good news is that help is available. 

How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed in Danvers, MA? 

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, the first step is to talk with a healthcare provider in Danvers, MA. Diagnosis may include: 

1. Medical History & Symptom Review 
2. Your doctor will ask about your sleep habits, symptoms, and overall health. 
3. Sleep Study (Polysomnography) 
4. Conducted overnight at a sleep center or sometimes at home. 
5. Measures breathing patterns, oxygen levels, brain activity, and heart rate. 
6. Home Sleep Apnea Testing (HSAT) 
7. A simplified test you can take in the comfort of your own home. 
8. Tracks breathing, airflow, and oxygen saturation. 

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea 

The right treatment for sleep apnea depends on the severity of your condition. Some of the most effective options include: 

• Lifestyle Changes 

For mild cases, lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Losing weight, avoiding alcohol or sedatives before bed, and changing sleep positions may reduce symptoms. Something as simple as sleeping on your side instead of your back can prevent airway collapse. 

• CPAP Therapy (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) 

For moderate to severe cases, more structured interventions are typically necessary. CPAP therapy, short for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, is the most widely used treatment. The CPAP machine delivers a steady stream of air through a mask to keep the airway open throughout the night. While highly effective, some patients struggle with comfort, mask fit, or the noise of the machine. 

• Oral Appliance Therapy (Dental Devices) 

An alternative for many patients is oral appliance therapy. These devices, which resemble a custom mouthguard, reposition the jaw and tongue to prevent airway obstruction. Oral appliances are smaller, easier to use, and travel-friendly, making them a popular option for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP. 

• Surgery 

In some cases, surgery may be recommended. Procedures can involve removing excess tissue, repositioning the jaw, or implanting devices that stimulate airway muscles. Surgery is typically reserved for patients who do not respond to other treatments. Contact us to learn more. 

How Hathorne Family Dental Can Help 

At Hathorne Family Dental in Danvers, MA, Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry offers oral appliance therapy for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. These appliances are: 

• Comfortable and non-invasive 

• Portable and easy to use 

• Effective in reducing snoring and improving sleep quality 

If you’ve struggled with CPAP or are looking for an alternative solution, a dental sleep apnea device may be the right choice for you. 

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Oral Health 

Did you know your dentist may be the first to spot the signs of sleep apnea? During routine checkups, Dr. Chilakamarry may notice symptoms such as: 

• Tooth wear from grinding (bruxism) 

• Dry mouth from open-mouth breathing 

• Red or inflamed gums 

• Scalloped tongue edges (from pressure against the teeth) 

This connection makes dentists uniquely qualified to help identify and manage sleep-disordered breathing. 

FIND OUT IF YOUR DENTAL HEALTH IS AFFECTING YOUR SLEEP – SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION WITH DR. CHILAKAMARRY! 

Living with Sleep Apnea: Tips for Better Sleep 

Even with treatment, there are habits you can adopt to improve your sleep quality: 

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule 

• Create a dark, quiet, and cool sleep environment 

• Avoid caffeine and heavy meals before bedtime 

• Exercise regularly, but not right before bed 

• Use a humidifier if dry air worsens symptoms 

When to See a Dentist About Sleep Apnea 

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, it’s important to seek help. You should schedule an appointment if you: 

• Experience loud, chronic snoring 

• Frequently wake up gasping for air 

• Suffer from constant fatigue despite sleeping enough 

• Have a family history of sleep apnea 

• Have already been diagnosed and want to explore oral appliance therapy 

Conclusion 

Sleep apnea is a serious but treatable condition that affects millions of people. If you’ve been asking yourself, “Do I have sleep apnea?”—don’t ignore the warning signs. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help you reclaim your energy, health, and quality of life. 

At Hathorne Family Dental in Danvers, MA, Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry is here to provide compassionate care and effective treatment options like oral appliance therapy. If you suspect sleep apnea is disrupting your nights—and your days—schedule a consultation with our team today. A good night’s sleep could be closer than you think. 

FAQs About Sleep Apnea 

• Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea? 

Not necessarily. Many people snore without having sleep apnea, but loud, chronic snoring accompanied by pauses in breathing may indicate a problem. 

• Can children have sleep apnea? 

Yes. Children can develop sleep apnea, often due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Symptoms may include snoring, restless sleep, and behavioral issues. 

• What’s the difference between sleep apnea and insomnia? 

Insomnia involves difficulty falling or staying asleep, while sleep apnea is caused by pauses in breathing that repeatedly disrupt sleep. 

• Is sleep apnea dangerous? 

Yes. Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, and even accidents caused by daytime sleepiness. 

• Can losing weight cure sleep apnea? 

Weight loss can significantly reduce the severity of sleep apnea, particularly obstructive sleep apnea, but it may not eliminate it entirely. 

• Do I need a CPAP machine forever? 

Not always. Some patients manage well with oral appliances, lifestyle changes, or surgical options. The right treatment depends on your diagnosis. 

• Can my dentist really help with sleep apnea? 

Absolutely. Dentists like Dr. Chilakamarry can provide custom oral appliances designed to keep the airway open during sleep. 

• How is oral appliance therapy different from CPAP? 

Oral appliances are small, portable devices worn in the mouth, while CPAP requires wearing a mask connected to a machine that delivers continuous air pressure. 

• Will insurance cover sleep apnea treatment? 

In many cases, yes. Coverage varies, but both medical and dental insurance plans may help cover treatment. 

• What should I do if I think I have sleep apnea? 

Schedule a consultation with your doctor or dentist. They may recommend a sleep study to confirm the diagnosis and guide you toward the best treatment.