Protecting Your Child From Sleep Apnea
Can Sleep Apnea Hurt My Unborn Baby?
As a mother, protecting your child and keeping them healthy is your number one priority. Pregnant women with sleep apnea may be at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, which can be dangerous for a fetus. Additionally, moms-to-be with the sleep disorder has been found to be three times more likely to require a cesarean delivery.
A disrupted breathing pattern often leads to oxygen deprivation. This could cause serious damage to your brain and your baby’s development. Sleep apnea will also lead to fatigue, lack of focus, and a weakened immune system. A traditional doctor may suggest a CPAP machine. However, these machines come with their own set of problems.
CPAP machine users often describe the following negative symptoms after consistent use:
- Difficulty getting used to forced air
- Dry, cracked, or bleeding nose
- Feeling claustrophobic
- Discomfort from the wrong size
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Discomfort from wearing the device
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea and you’re seeking the best treatment in Pasadena, CA, contact Dr. Karen E. Guinn. She can help you overcome your sleep apnea and protect your baby without the use of a CPAP machine.
CPAP Alternatives
Patients who suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) often seek alternatives to the CPAP machine. Dr. Guinn will suggest an oral appliance that fits much like an Invisalign aligner. This device works by holding your jaw and mouth in such a way that obstruction is prevented during sleep.
How Can I Deal with Sleep Apnea While Pregnant?
When you’re pregnant and also suffer from sleep apnea, side sleeping can be a great help for you, the baby, and your symptoms. Side sleeping is better than back sleeping as it helps alleviate nasal congestion and opens your airway.
What are the Different Types of Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea: In adults, the most common cause of OSA is an excess weight associated with the mouth and throat. During sleep, when your throat and tongue relax, your soft tissue may start to block your airways.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): CSA is caused by the central nervous system failing to signal the muscles in your body that control breathing. This is a far less common form of sleep apnea than OSA and does not typically cause snoring.
Complex Sleep Apnea: Complex sleep apnea is the combination of both CSA and OSA.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Identifying sleep apnea on your own can be difficult because the most prominent symptoms arise only while you’re asleep. A doctor may suggest that you set up a camera and microphone to monitor your sleep.
These are some of the major warning signs during sleep:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Choking and snorting
- Gasping for air and pauses in breathing
- Waking up short of breath
Once you notice these symptoms, don’t hesitate to take action — doing so puts you and your child at risk.
Protect Your Child From Sleep Apnea
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea and you’re ready to find a solution, call Dr. Guinn. She understands just how important it is to protect your child’s development. Call The Smile Agency at (626)-513-4987 and schedule a consultation.