Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea in Jacksonville, FL
Are you drowsy during the day with no explanation? Do you snore loudly or wake up breathless in the middle of the night? If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be one of more than 12 million Americans who are affected by sleep apnea.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition in which your breathing stops periodically during sleep, as many as 20-30 times per hour. Each time you stop breathing in your sleep, the resulting lack of oxygen alerts your brain, which temporarily wakes you up to restart proper breathing. Since the time spent awake is so brief, most people with sleep apnea don't remember it, and many believe they are getting a good night's sleep when, in fact, they are not. The constant wake-sleep, wake-sleep cycle prevents those with sleep apnea from achieving deep sleep, resulting in a constant drowsy feeling during the day.
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What are the signs of sleep apnea?
Are there different types of sleep apnea?
There are three categories of sleep apnea. The most common is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and occurs due to a physical blockage, usually the collapsing of the soft tissue in the back of the throat. Less common is central sleep apnea (CSA), in which breathing stops because the muscles involved don't receive the proper signal from the brain. And some people suffer from "mixed" or "complex" sleep apnea, which is a combination of obstructive and central.
What are risk factors for sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in males than females, and more common in older adults (40+) than younger adults and children. However, anyone — regardless of gender or age — can suffer from sleep apnea. Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, drinking, use of sedatives or tranquilizers, and family history. Central sleep apnea strikes most often in people with heart disorders, neuromuscular disorders, strokes, or brain tumors.
Is sleep apnea dangerous?
Sleep apnea is considered a serious medical problem and if left untreated it can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure and stroke. The ongoing state of fatigue caused by sleep apnea can lead to problems at work or school, as well as danger when driving or operating heavy machinery. Sleep apnea can also cause complications with medication or surgery; sedation by anesthesia can be risky, as can lying flat in bed after an operation. If you know or suspect you suffer from sleep apnea, let your family doctor know before taking prescribed medication or having surgery.
How is sleep apnea treated?
Treatments for sleep apnea depend on the severity of each individual case, and the type of apnea. Basic treatment can be behavioral — for instance, patients are instructed to lose weight, stop smoking, or sleep on their sides instead of on their backs. Beyond that, oral devices can be used to position the mouth in such a way that prevents throat blockage. In more severe cases, surgery may be the best option.
What should I do if I suspect that someone in my family suffers from sleep apnea?
Contact our practice, and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist. The specialist may recommend a sleep study to diagnose the precise extent of the problem, and can prescribe appropriate treatment. Depending on your situation, treatment may involve an oral device that we can custom-create for you.
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Dr. Rios and his staff do a tremendous job of their care and treatment of patients! Very professional and friendly. If you are looking for a reliable dentist and a dedicated staff team, this is the place!
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They have taken wonderful care of me for many years!! I recently referred my husband for some extensive dental work and they took wonderful care of him!!! I will continue to refer people to Dr. Rios and his team at Baymeadows Park Dental!
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After four years of searching I finally found a dentist who is so much like the one I left in Lake Placid, Fl. Dr Rios is kind, personable, efficient and his staff reflects that attitude. Yes I'd recommend him to family. friends and someone who is looking for a really good dentist.
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Dr Rios and his staff are very professional and friendly. My family has been going to Cypress Point Family dentistry for years now and we always recommend them to friends. They are very good at taking the time to explain any additional procedures and to provide cost estimates based on our insurance.
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Love that they are waiting when I arrive and greet me by name. Hygienists are awesome! I love dawn but all the ladies are great! Dr Rios is kind and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend!
Marissa K.
Everyone here is always pleasant and efficient in getting me in and out for my appointments. Dawn cleans my teeth with care and is very thorough with my cleanings. Dr. Rios is always quick to get in and look at my teeth after my cleaning is finished so that I can get on with my day without too much downtime. I never feel pressured by their recommendations and never feel like they're trying to sell me products or services I don't really need. Great place with great people, definitely recommend!
Jess T.
I had a super friendly experience attending a cleaning visit here. The Dr. and his assistant used a sound combination of technology and expertise to thoroughly go through my mouth. The pictures were scary, but the advice was priceless. I wish I had visited this office earlier.
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