Long, loud snoring is usually the first thing people think of when the term “sleep apnea” comes up. But not all snoring is sleep apnea—and snoring isn’t the only symptom either. Chronic exhaustion, no matter how long you “sleep,” is another classic clue. The best way to know if you have sleep apnea is to do a sleep study. If you have a sleep apnea diagnosis, your dentist in Manchester, NH, Evelyn M Bryan D M D PC, can help. You should also be aware of the less well-known symptoms of sleep apnea, including:

1. Alarming Choking or Gasping Noises

If your partner has awakened you because you were making scary gasping or choking sounds, this is a sign that your airway isn’t open enough. This happens when your brain tells your body to move, so the airway will open again. The body then chokes or gasps to gulp down as much air as possible. This is one of the reasons you never quite reach a deep sleep if you have sleep apnea.

2. Your Bedding is All Twisted

People with sleep apnea move a lot in their sleep because the brain is always trying to keep the airway open. If you roll into a position that makes your tongue or jaw settle and close the airway, your brain will nudge you to move to reopen it. Your partner may also constantly nudge you to get you to move to stop the snoring and choking sounds. As a result, your bedsheets may get all twisted in the night.

3. Waking with a Dry Mouth and Headaches

Your brain worked hard all night to keep you breathing, so it did not get the rest it needed. Therefore, many people with sleep apnea wake up with headaches on top of the drowsiness. People with sleep apnea also frequently sleep with their mouths open, subconsciously trying to keep the air flowing. This results in waking up with a dry mouth.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms Your Dentist May Notice

Our Manchester dentist also points out that facial, dental, and neck characteristics can provide clues pointing toward sleep apnea, including:

• Larger-than-normal tongue
• Narrow palate
• Wide neck
• Crowded teeth
• Oversized tonsils

See the Dentist Manchester, NH Neighbors Trust for Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep apnea is more than just exhausting; it can damage your health and severely hurt your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with Evelyn M Bryan D M D PC today to discuss your sleep apnea treatment options, including snore guards—a dental appliance you can wear at night to help keep your airway open so you can finally get a restful night’s sleep.