Sleep apnea is a serious condition that affects millions of Americans, yet it often goes undiagnosed—especially in women. This common sleep disorder can significantly impact health, well-being, and quality of life if left untreated. Our dentist in Urbandale, Iowa understands women’s unique challenges when recognizing and treating sleep apnea. We help our patients take control of their sleep health with a compassionate and comprehensive approach.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing that disrupt the sleep cycle. The most common form, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), often leads to loud snoring, gasping, or choking sounds during sleep.
While sleep apnea symptoms in men often include loud snoring and daytime sleepiness, women may experience different signs. These can include:
- Insomnia or difficulty falling asleep.
- Waking up feeling unrefreshed.
- Fatigue throughout the day.
- Mood changes, such as anxiety or depression.
- Frequent headaches, especially in the morning.
These subtle differences can make it harder for women to recognize sleep apnea as the cause of their symptoms, leading to misdiagnoses or delayed treatment.
Why Sleep Apnea Is Often Overlooked in Women
Women’s symptoms of sleep apnea can be more subtle than those experienced by men. As a result, women are often misdiagnosed with conditions such as insomnia, depression, or chronic fatigue syndrome.
Hormonal changes during life stages, such as pregnancy and menopause, can further complicate the diagnosis. For example:
- Pregnancy can increase the risk of sleep apnea due to weight gain and changes in breathing patterns.
- Post-menopausal women may experience a higher risk of OSA due to changes in hormone levels.
Because sleep apnea is less commonly recognized in women, it’s essential to stay aware of the potential signs and seek evaluation if symptoms persist.
The Impact of Sleep Apnea on Women’s Health
Untreated sleep apnea can take a toll on a woman’s health, contributing to both short-term and long-term complications. These include:
- Heart Health Risks: Sleep apnea increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Poor sleep quality can disrupt hormone regulation, potentially affecting metabolism and overall energy levels.
- Mental Health Challenges: Interrupted sleep often leads to mood swings, anxiety, and depression, reducing overall quality of life.
- Chronic Conditions: Sleep apnea may contribute to diabetes and other chronic illnesses, particularly when left untreated.
The good news is that effective treatments are available, and addressing sleep apnea can significantly improve overall health and well-being.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Our Des Moines dentist offers a patient-focused approach to diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. Women who suspect they may have sleep apnea can take advantage of our at-home sleep studies. This convenient option allows you to monitor your sleep in the comfort of your bed while capturing essential data about oxygen levels, breathing patterns, and interruptions.
Once diagnosed, our team works with you to create a personalized treatment plan. One of our most effective options is Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT).
What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral Appliance Therapy, a key component of dental sleep medicine (DSM), involves using a custom-fitted oral device designed to keep the airway open during sleep. These devices are:
- Comfortable and easy to wear.
- Portable and convenient for travel.
- Non-invasive and medication-free.
Oral appliance therapy offers a practical solution for improving sleep quality by addressing the root causes of sleep-disordered breathing, such as snoring and sleep apnea, and provides a reliable alternative for women who struggle with CPAP machines or prefer a simpler solution; by gently adjusting the position of the jaw and tongue, these appliances help prevent airway collapse, ensuring restful and uninterrupted sleep.
Dr. Jessica Lawson: Your Partner in Better Sleep
Dr. Jessica Lawson brings years of experience and a commitment to improving the quality of life for patients with sleep apnea. She understands how sleep apnea can affect women and creates customized solutions to address each patient’s needs.
At Lawson Dentistry, our approach emphasizes comfort, education, and long-term health. We don’t just treat symptoms—we empower you to take control of your sleep and overall wellness.
Choose Our Dentist For Sleep Apnea Treatment
Choosing the right provider for your sleep apnea care is crucial which is why we offer a welcoming and patient-centered environment. Here’s why women trust us with their care:
- Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to treatment, we offer a seamless experience tailored to your needs.
- Convenient Solutions: Our at-home sleep studies and oral appliance therapy options make it easy to start your journey toward better sleep.
- Holistic Approach: We understand that your oral health is connected to your overall well-being, and we’re here to support both.
Take Control of Your Sleep Health Today
If you’re experiencing signs of sleep apnea or suspect you might be at risk, don’t wait to seek help. At Lawson Dentistry, we make it easy to take the first step with at-home sleep studies and personalized treatment plans.
Call us today at (515) 278-4366 to learn more about how we can help. Our office, conveniently located in Urbandale, Iowa, supports your journey to better sleep and improved health.
