Sleep Safely Through Your Pregnancy
Sleep apnea occurs when a patient stops breathing several times each night while they’re sleeping. This reduces the amount of oxygen in their bloodstream, which can have serious medical consequences. Sleep apnea during pregnancy is especially concerning, as it can harm both the expectant mother and her unborn child.
Anyone who’s pregnant has an increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea since the higher levels of estrogen can cause the mucus membrane in the nose to swell, leading to more nasal congestion. The latest research shows that up to 30% of pregnant women will develop sleep apnea in their third trimester.
Dr. Doneskey and the rest of our team at The Sleep Apnea & Facial Pain Center can treat your sleep apnea during pregnancy and beyond. Simply contact us and schedule a consultation right away with the best dentist on Seattle’s Eastside.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy
While snoring during pregnancy is extremely common, this doesn’t mean that you have sleep apnea. But if you or your partner notice that you’ve been waking up gasping for air throughout the night, or restlessness, these could be signs of a bigger issue. Symptoms of sleep apnea during pregnancy include:
- Loud, frequent snoring
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Frequent urination at night
- Insomnia
- Poor memory
- Poor mood during the day
It certainly isn’t unusual to feel a bit more tired during pregnancy, but excessive fatigue and interrupted breathing are usually signs of a larger issue. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to call our Bellevue office at (425) 646-6409 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Doneskey.
The Dangers of Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy
If left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can lead to an increased risk of serious health conditions in the mother like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
There are also additional risks that result from the drop in blood oxygen levels caused by those frequent breathing interruptions. You need plenty of oxygen during your pregnancy, and so does your developing baby. You may even raise your risk of premature birth or low birth weight. This may mean your baby could spend some time in the ICU right after birth.
In addition, sleep apnea can also worsen some potential pregnancy conditions such as:
- Gestational Diabetes
- Gestational Hypertension or Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension
- Preeclampsia
- Preterm birth
- Depression
- Hypercoagulation
Safe Sleep Apnea Treatment
If you’re pregnant and concerned with your sleep apnea symptoms, our team is here to help. Dr. Doneskey is a leading dental specialist in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. Call our Bellevue, WA office at (425) 646-6409 today or request an appointment here. We look forward to meeting you!