Do jaw problems cause sleep apnea?
I’ve had problems with my jaw for a long time now, and lately it’s been getting worse. It pops very loudly every time I open. I think it is poorly aligned, and I was planning on getting it checked to see if I have TMJ.
Lately, I’ve also been having problems with sleeping. In the middle of my sleep, I will bolt upright in bed, gasping for air, and trying to swallow. My heart will be racing, as I desperatly try to restart my breathing, which takes about 10-15 scary seconds. I was thinking that maybe this could be sleep apnea. But I do not have snoring problems, I am not overweight, do not have asthma, do not smoke, I’m female, and only 21 years old. I don’t seem to be a very good candidate.
But I’ve read that one way to fix sleep apnea is by getting a device to push the jaw slightly forward. Could my poor jaw alignment be causing me to have sleep amnea problems?
Tagged with: Apnea • Cause • Problems • Sleep
Filed under: Sleep Apnea Devices
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It definitely could. Especially if your tongue is dropping back in your throat while you are sleeping, which then cuts off the air and will cause you to feel that you are “choking” and can’t get a breath. You will then waken in that panic mode.
Since you are planning on going and getting your jaw checked out and your dentist will probably have you see a specialist and will recommend a night guard which will take time to make, you can do something in the meantime.
Go to your local sports store and by a mouthguard. Yes, I know it sounds silly but do it. Just the good old plastic mouthguard. Wear it at night. It will take some time getting used to, but it will keep your jaw aligned and will keep your tongue from slipping.
Good luck and take care!