Snoring is the main symptom of the condition sleep apnoea, where the airways become blocked as you sleep, resulting in a loss of oxygen. This leads to interrupted sleep where you often awake, sometimes gasping for air. One of the major effects of sleep apnoea is a constant feeling of fatigue during the day.
If you are experiencing this and also regularly snore you should have a test for sleep apnoea. Obstructive sleep apnoea is the most common form of the condition and the persistent tiredness can lead to poor concentration, moodiness and an increased risk of accidents.
For mild to moderate sleep apnoea many dentists can provide an oral appliance which pushes the lower jaw down as you sleep, allowing the airways to remain open. Without treatment sleep apnoea can result in serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
Snoring can be more than just a nuisance, it can be a sign of sleep apnoea, but with the correct treatment you can have a proper night’s sleep again and be rid of feeling constantly fatigued.
Do you have sleep apnoea? An in-home Sleep Test provides a quick, convenient and affordable way to have sleep apnoea confirmed. All studies are independently analysed by experienced NHS-qualified sleep professionals, and use the WatchPAT recording device for unrivalled accuracy.
Learn more about sleep apnoea: https://www.sleeptest.co.uk
Matthew Houlton BDS(Sheffield) MFGDP(UK)I’m Matthew Houlton, principal dentist and practice owner of Manor House Dental Practice.
Qualified from Sheffield dental hospital in 1993.
Post graduate training with Paul Tipton (Specialist Prosthodontist) from 2005-2007.
Diploma for Membership of the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) 2007.
Special interest in Orthodontics.
Yorkshire Deanary Fixed Appliance Training Scheme 2002-2004.
I have worked at York Hospital’s orthodontic department one session a week since 2009.
Member of the British Society of Occlusal Studies (the study of temporomandibular disorder).
I have two children, who keep me busy when I am not at the practice. I take a keen interest in and teach Aikido, a martial art, to keep a healthy mind and body.
