Are you constantly tired during the day no matter how much sleep you get at night? Although that’s also a sign of being a new parent, your child hasn’t even been born yet. So, what could it be? It may be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea in Las Vegas, a serious sleep disorder where you have episodes of not breathing during the night. Your airway gets blocked, and your body goes into panic mode and wakes you up since you’re not getting the oxygen you need. How can you combat this disorder, especially while pregnant? Read on as a dentist gives the answers.
The Signs of Sleep Apnea
First things first, visit a sleep center in Las Vegas if any of the following symptoms sound familiar to you:
- Persistent daytime sleepiness
- Waking up throughout the night with a choking or gasping sensation
- Partner hearing loud snoring
- Morning headaches
- Waking up with a dry or sore throat
- Increased moodiness, irritability, or depression
Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to a lower quality of life since your sleep is affected. It has also been connected with type II diabetes and heart disease. In addition, women with sleep apnea are more likely to deliver babies prematurely and/or with low birth weight.
Managing Sleep Apnea While Pregnant
If you think you may have sleep apnea and may become pregnant in the future, let all members of your medical care team know. You will have a higher risk of hypertensive disorders and gestational diabetes, which can make pregnancy much more complicated. If you are undiagnosed, but one of your doctors thinks you have sleep apnea, he or she will refer you to a sleep specialist who can confirm or deny that diagnosis.
During pregnancy, it may be helpful to sleep on your side. This will make it less likely for your airway to get blocked. In addition, it never hurts to ask your partner if they hear any snoring or gasping noises coming from you at night. Even if they’re fairly quiet, it could still be a sign of apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious disorder that can result in harmful side effects, both for you and your little bundle of joy. If you think you have it, seek treatment immediately.
About the Author
Dr. Pamela West has been dedicated to treating sleep apnea for more than five years now. She is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. She is able to diagnose and treat sleep apnea in a variety of patients. If you think you have sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to call Dr. West at (702) 602-2000 or visit her website.