A sound sleep recharges you for the next day and improves your overall health and well-being. But, are you waking up tired and groggy, feeling like you haven’t slept at all? We’ve all been there, but if it’s a regular occurrence, your body could be telling you something. Dr. Tye, your Keller, TX oral surgeon, works with patients who may be suffering from a sleep syndrome that prevents them from getting the rest they need. Called Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS), this disorder may seem frustrating, but can also be potentially dangerous if not treated.
If you are struggling to sleep soundly or have problems with loud or disruptive snoring, schedule an appointment with Dr. Tye, a top-rated oral surgeon serving Keller, TX. Dr. Tye has helped patients across North Texas find the rest they need to live happier, healthier lives. Reach out to our practice now to schedule your consultation.
Definition of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS)
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome is the most common sleep apnea. It’s a condition where a patient’s throat muscles relax and block the upper respiratory airway, preventing breathing for a period of time. The uvula, the tonsils, and the tongue are all controlled by these throat and facial muscles and can also cause obstruction in the airway. When the airway is narrowed, breathing quality suffers for up to 20 or 30 seconds. During that time, your blood oxygen levels can decrease and carbon dioxide levels increase. The body will rouse itself to re-open the airway, however the wakening is usually so short patients won’t remember it.
Signs and Symptoms
Many patients with OSAS report loud, frequent, and disruptive snoring. Though not everyone who snores has OSAS, loud snoring that is broken up with period of silence is a sign the airway may be obstructed. With OSAS, observation shows that snoring is louder when laying on the back, and quieter when laying on the side.
Other symptoms can include:
- Fatigue during the day
- Waking up abruptly during the night, “gasping” for air
- Night sweats
- Dry mouth and sore throat during the night and in the morning
- Morning headaches
- High blood pressure
- Inability to concentrate on tasks during the day
- Mood changes such as increased irritability
How an Oral Surgeon Can Help
Dr. Tye can perform a medical assessment to determine if you suffer from a breathing obstruction. Annoying or disruptive snoring, whether or not it is tied to OSAS, can usually be alleviated through custom devices or procedures. Laser Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) or the Pillar® Procedure are two popular procedures to eliminate night-time snoring.
Treatment for OSAS may include a CPAP or bi-PAP appliance which maintains even oxygen flow during the night. Dr. Tye can also discuss long-term options to treat the causes of OSAS, rather than just the symptoms.
Contact Your Keller, TX Oral Surgeon, Dr. Tye
Dr. Tye has served over 20 years as a trusted Keller, TX oral surgeon — as well as serving the areas of Grapevine, Colleyville, and Southlake, TX. He has extensive experience helping those who suffer from the devastating effects of OSAS and other sleep issues. Don’t ignore the signs of OSAS; schedule your sleep consultation with Dr. Tye today and start getting a better, safer, night’s sleep soon.
