Faqs About Sleep Apnea And Erectile Dysfunction
Posted on: 12 October 2016
Most people know that erectile dysfunction can be caused by mental issues, stress, heart disease, obesity, and high blood pressure. One possible culprit that is often overlooked is sleep apnea. If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, here is what you need to know about the health condition and sleep apnea.
How Is Sleep Apnea Linked to Erectile Dysfunction?
Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes irregular patterns in your breathing. Throughout the night, your breathing can stop and start several times. As a result, your sleep patterns are often interrupted and this can result in the development of insomnia. Testosterone is mainly produced throughout the night while you sleep. If your sleep patterns are interrupted, production is decreased.
What Are the Treatment Options?
If your erectile dysfunction is caused by sleep apnea, the treatment for your sexual problem lies in treating the underlying condition. Although your family doctor plays an important role in developing a treatment plan, your dentist might be the key to improving your sex life.
One of the most commonly used treatments available for sleep apnea is an oral appliance. The appliance works by forcing your airway to remain open while you sleep. The custom-fitted appliance pulls your jaw forward, which helps your breathing.
If you opt for the appliance, you might have to try several before finding the one that is right for you. A dentist (like one from Persona Dental) and family doctor will continue to monitor your condition to determine if the fit is right and if it is proving effective.
Will Using a CPAP Machine Be Necessary?
Another treatment option for sleep apnea is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. A mask fits over your nose and pushes air into your airway while sleeping.
In some instances, an oral appliance might not be the most effective method of treating sleep apnea. If your dentist and doctor determine that you are not a good candidate for the oral appliance, you might have to use the CPAP.
It is important to note that some doctors opt for a combination of the CPAP and oral appliances to treat sleep apnea. Whether or not this is the right treatment for you depends on the severity of your condition and how effective the oral appliance has been.
Your dentist and family doctor can be instrumental in treating sleep apnea-related erectile dysfunction. Keep both doctors informed of your condition so they can monitor what does and does not work.
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