If you’re suffering from a poor night’s sleep because of sleep apnea, you’re probably willing to try anything to get better rest. Many people wonder if taking sleeping pills before bed will help them sleep through the night. While this may seem like a good option, it comes with some level of risk. Here’s what you should know about sleeping pills in Ponte Vedra Beach if you have sleep apnea.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep Apnea is a disorder that disrupts breathing during sleep. For people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the muscles in the back of the throat that support the soft palate relax when sleeping. As a result, the airway becomes narrow and blocks the pathway for oxygen, preventing a normal flow.
People wake up when their body registers low levels of oxygen in the bloodstream. This can occur dozens of times throughout the night, although many people don’t remember the disturbances at all because they are often very brief. The repeated disruptions result in a poor night’s sleep, which is linked to numerous health problems and can ultimately exacerbate your sleep apnea.
Can I Take Sleeping Pills for Sleep Apnea?
Sleeping pills may seem like a simple solution to address poor rest related to sleep apnea. However, it’s not recommended as a remedy. That’s because sleep medications are known to suppress breathing—they relax the tissues that block the airway, leading to an even more reduced space for oxygen to enter and exit the body. In other words, sleeping pills can make your sleep apnea worse.
If you take sleep medication for your sleep apnea, you may also increase your risk for several additional health complications:
- High blood pressure
- Cardiovascular complications
- Loud snoring
- Increased exhaustion
- Depression and mood changes
- Memory problems
How Can I Treat Sleep Apnea?
Visit your dentist if you believe you are suffering from sleep apnea. They will be able to screen you for the disorder and direct you to treatments. Sometimes a sleep test may be necessary to get a diagnosis.
CPAP machines are often used to ease symptoms of sleep apnea. They work by providing a flow of air administered through a mask during sleep. While this can alleviate breathing difficulties, they can be uncomfortable to wear and inconvenient.
Oral appliance therapy is often a great alternative. It’s typically far more practical, less bulky, and more comfortable for the wearer. Your dentist will work with you to select an appliance best suited for your lifestyle and sleeping habits.
Don’t let your sleep apnea prevent you from getting proper rest. Before you reach for those sleeping pills, get in touch with your dentist to see if oral appliance therapy can improve your symptoms.
About the Practice
Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry strives to make your visit as comfortable as possible. Their team of dentists, Dr. Harth and Dr. Townsend, has years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, and sleep apnea treatment. They are members of the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association. Additionally, Dr. Harth is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, an award achieved by less than 1% of dentists. If you have questions about sleep apnea treatments, visit their website or give them a call at (904)285-7711.