If you are reading this, you probably already know or suspect that you might have sleep apnea, or at least some level of upper airway restriction (UAR). Who this article is really for though is all those who are either still in denial or living in ignorant bliss. The fact of the matter is that 80% or more of us have one or more health issues involving a compromised airway, restricted breathing, and interrupted sleep!

The obvious sign that you have sleep apnea is if you ever wake up gasping for breath. That wasn’t just a dream. It is more likely you were dreaming because your subconscious was trying to warn you that you are not getting enough oxygen! And if you snore, it’s not just an irritation to your spouse, it means your airway is restricted which, with or without actual sleep apnea, is causing you stress, high blood pressure, and whatever else might come with that. Daytime drowsiness, micro-sleeping (winking-off), and insomnia are other sleep issues that directly or indirectly affect your health and safety. Obesity, being over 50 years old, or simply being male are other risk factors.

But what about those who believe they “sleep like a baby”? Do they really? Maybe, but often not so much. Other indicators that you might have a serious sleep related health issue include –

• Crooked or crowded teeth

• Past orthodontic treatment

• An overbite

• Tongue tie

• TMJ pain

• Tooth clenching or grinding.

And why should you care? High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, microvascular ischemia, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s, ADHA, fibromyalgia, anxiety, aggression, depression. These are just some of the things we are discovering that often stem from the stress and strain that comes from compromised breathing.

So how can you know? Get tested!  What have you got to lose? Nothing, but so much to gain and avoid if you nip it in the bud. 5 to 95. No one is too old or young to benefit!

855-553-7566 Or Smiles@DrLonPeckham.com

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