Sleep Apnea & Your Relationship in Silver Spring, MD
Restoring Sleep—and Peace—in Your Relationship With Help From Silver Spring Sleep Solutions!
One of the main indicators of sleep apnea is loud snoring with abrupt stops, followed by gasping for air. While the person most affected by sleep apnea is the person with the disorder, it’s no surprise that it can also take a toll on your relationships as well.
You, as well as your partner, will miss out on countless hours of rest and then spend time arguing over lost sleep and feelings of exhaustion. If this is you, you’ll be happy to know that there are solutions available and Dr. Bassford can help.
Dr. Bassford has achieved the highest honor of Diplomate status with The American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. She has completed several continuing education courses, learning about the latest techniques and ways to improve your symptoms so you and your partner can enjoy the benefits of a peaceful night of rest. Call our Silver Spring sleep dentist today at 301-593-5500 to schedule an appointment with us. We’re here for patients in Silver Spring, Kensington, Wheaton-Glenmont, Washington DC, and beyond.
Effective, Comfortable Sleep Apnea Care in Silver Spring
Struggling with poor sleep or loud snoring? Sleep apnea could be the cause—and Dr. Bassford, one of the best sleep dentists in Silver Spring, is here to help. At Silver Spring Sleep Solutions, we offer custom, non-surgical treatments that make better sleep possible without the discomfort of traditional CPAP machines. Dr. Bassford specializes in oral appliance therapy, crafting devices that gently reposition the jaw to keep your airway open through the night. Each treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, with a focus on comfort, convenience, and lasting results. Take the first step toward deeper sleep and brighter days—right here in Silver Spring.
Sleep Apnea & Intimacy
When you and your partner aren’t getting the rest you need, the words, “I’m too tired,” will probably come across more often than if you were both sleeping quietly and feeling refreshed the next day. Untreated sleep apnea can cause erectile dysfunction which can put an additional strain on the relationship.
One study showed that the effects of sleep apnea negatively affected partners’ mood, quality of life, and relationship quality. As a result, sleep apnea has been linked to higher divorce rates. Sleep apnea puts stress on your relationship that can be lifted once treatment is started.
Our Sleep Apnea Solutions Near Bethesda, MD
When you and your partner are getting the sleep you need, it can also improve your quality of life. Treatment starts with 4 easy steps:
- Schedule a consultation with a sleep specialist near you, like Dr. Bassford, who will examine your symptoms and determine if you would benefit from a sleep study
- An at-home or in-lab sleep study will provide you with a proper diagnosis
- After you’re diagnosed with sleep apnea, Dr. Bassford will review your results and create a customized treatment plan to meet your needs which may include the use of a comfortable oral appliance and lifestyle modifications
- Once you’ve received your device, you and your partner can start enjoying the benefits of a good night’s sleep
It’s a Team Effort
While you’re waiting for your customized oral appliance, there are ways you can combat sleep apnea instead of letting it take control of your relationship, including:
- Sleep head to foot
- Sleep separately a few nights a week
- Use a noisemaker or headphones
- The partner who doesn’t snore should go to sleep first
If you’re still unable to find relief, be sure to ask Dr. Bassford, our Silver Spring sleep specialist, at your appointment and she’ll provide you with some friendly tips in the meantime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sleep apnea affect hormones?
If sleep apnea is left untreated for even a few days, it can increase blood sugar and fat levels, stress hormones, and blood pressure. This can lead to problems in the immediate future and down the line. If you have sleep apnea, seeking treatment will help prevent future health complications and improve your quality of life.
Can sleep apnea change your personality?
Patients with sleep apnea have a higher rate of depression and anxiety and experience anxiety more often than patients without sleep apnea. The likelihood of mood disorders increases with the severity of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is also associated with difficulty focusing, memory problems, poor decision-making, depression, and stress.
What aggravates sleep apnea?
There are a few factors that can make your untreated sleep apnea worse, including:
- Sedatives
- Alcohol
- Weight gain
- Sleeping on your back
How can I fix sleep apnea naturally?
Certain lifestyle modifications can help improve your sleep apnea, including:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
- Positional therapy
- Use a humidifier
- Avoid alcohol and smoking
While lifestyle modifications are helpful, they’re best used in combination with a trusted method such as an oral appliance so you can be sure you’re getting the most out of your treatment.
If you have sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bassford by calling 301-593-5500. During the consultation, she’ll examine your symptoms and determine the steps ahead for a healthy recovery.
You and Your Partner Deserve a Peaceful Night of Rest – Silver Spring Sleep Solutions Can Help!
Without treatment, sleep apnea can wreak havoc on your health and your relationship. Dr. Bassford can help put an end to sleepless nights so you can start enjoying energized mornings. Contact our Silver Spring sleep dentist by calling 301-593-5500 or filling out our online contact form. We look forward to meeting new patients in and around Washington, South Kensington, and South Four Corners.
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OFFICE
10301 Georgia Ave, Suite 207
Silver Spring, MD 20902