Sleep Apnea Diagnosis in Fort Atkinson, WI
Accurate Diagnosis
One of the reasons why sleep apneaThis link leads to Sleep Apnea page is so dangerousThis link leads to Sleep Apnea Dangers page is that most people with the condition don’t know they have it. Perhaps 80% don’t know they have it. Before you can get treatmentThis link leads to Sleep APnea Treatment page for sleep apnea, you must be properly diagnosed. While there are many signs and different screening tools, there is only one way to diagnose: a sleep test.
The Warning Signs
Although most people with sleep apnea are undiagnosed, they often notice the warning signs long before they get a positive diagnosis.
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Waking up unrested from a full night’s sleep
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Morning headaches
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Dozing off during the day
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Irritation or moodiness
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Loss of motivation or focus
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Frequent urination at night
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Insomnia
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Weight gain
Many distinct signs of sleep apnea won’t be noticed by you, but by your sleep partner.
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Loud snoring
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Gasping or choking noise
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Stops in breathing
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Restless sleep
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Clenching teeth
Other times, you might get a warning from a doctor who diagnoses you with related conditions or common misdiagnoses. As with TMJ, doctors often misdiagnose or overlook sleep apnea. Instead, you might be diagnosed with:
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High blood pressure
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Diabetes
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GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
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Sexual dysfunction
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Low testosterone
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Hypothyroidism
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Depression
Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea
There is one way to diagnose sleep apnea: a sleep test, also called a sleep study or polysomnography. That’s because the sleep test measures many aspects of your body’s function during sleep. This may include breathing, heart function, oxygen saturation, brain function, and more.
For many people, a home sleep test is recommended. This is less expensive and more comfortable, and it works just as well in most cases.
You might not be able to get a home sleep test if you have:
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Other sleep conditions
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Lung disease
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Prior heart failure
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Suspicion of central sleep apnea
In that case, you might have to visit a sleep lab for a more detailed test.
Whether you have a sleep test at home or at the sleep lab, your results will be reviewed by a doctor. They will then diagnose your sleep apnea.
Take control of your oral health for a lifetime of smiles.
"TMJ Specialist" is not officially recognized by the American Dental Association. Dr. Stafford is a general dentist with many years of training in TMJ and neuromuscular dentistry, even though the specialty is not officially recognized. However, Wisconsin requires the following statement. "Cosmetic dentistry, TMJ, Neuromuscular dentistry, and Aesthetic dentistry are specialty areas not recognized by the ADA that requires no specific educational training to advertise this service".