The most noticeable of sleep apnea symptoms is loud snoring that keeps the bed partner up all night. Constant airway blockage caused by the tongue falling back into the throat (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) causes temporary suffocation. Most patients stop breathing a number of times during the night and their bodies respond by shaking, gasping for air and moving around.

          The sleep apnea patient may continually wake up from sleeping or not be able to sleep at all (insomnia). Waking up is often accompanied with having to urinate and may be confused with a sign of diabetes, especially since another similar one of the sleep apnea symptoms is obesity. In some cases the patient will wake up gasping for air. Upon awakening many patients experience a dry mouth, disorientation, and a drawn out headache that doesn't go away easily. Their bed clothes are often soaked with sweat from sleep sweating and they often have heartburn.

          A body needs sleep to renew and repair. Keeping someone up all night for several days is actually an effective torture method. The lack of quality deep sleep causes the sleep apnea symptoms of irritability, short temper, anxiety, and inability to concentrate. The lack of sleep and decreased oxygen causes psychological problems. Some of the psychological effectsare depression, mood changes, behavioral changes and loss of sexual interest. The forgetfulness associated with sleep apnea can sometimes be mis-diagnosed as an early Alzheimer's symptom. Difficulty staying awake during the day can cause someone to fall asleep at the wheel of a car or to be involved in numerous accidents.

          The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. Dr. Padolsky, the senior dentist of our group, treats this disorder and would be happy to help you. If you have sleep apnea symptoms and would like to consult with a sleep apnea dentist, please call and make an appointment at 404-874-7428.