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The Truth About Your Sleeping Woes
Why do you wake up exhausted even after a “full” night’s rest? You go to bed on time, don’t use your phone before bed, and avoid caffeine. So what’s the problem? Why are you still waking feeling groggy and sluggish throughout the day? Maybe it’s time to look a little deeper. Could it be linked to your loud snoring that everyone always jokes about? Sure everyone sores, but it could very well be a sign that you may have a more serious condition known as Sleep Apnea.
This is when your breathing is disrupted while you are asleep; untreated sleep apnea patients continuously stop breathing while they sleep, sometimes hundreds of times per night. ( Click here to read more.)
It develops when the soft tissue in the back of your throat relaxes while you’re sleeping and closes off your airway, which is frequently followed by gasping or choking. Oxygen levels in the blood fall as airflow stops. Sleep apnea causes your sleep cycle to reset several times throughout the course of the night, which not only affects how you feel when you wake up but also increases your risk of developing chronic illnesses and, in the instance of a severe case that is untreated, can even be fatal.
Apart from snoring, you might experience some of the following symptoms:
- Extreme drowsiness during the day
Dryness in your mouth in the morning
Daytime headaches
Having trouble focusing
It is imperative that you speak with a Snoring Specialist if you suspect that you are someone you know might be suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea. It has been linked to issues including type 2 diabetes, strokes, heart attacks, and even a shorter lifespan, according to a number of studies.
Because sleep apnea can have long-term effects on your health, it is crucial to treat it.
Based on a measurement method known as the apnea-hypopnea index, obstructive sleep apnea can range in severity from mild to severe (AHI). The AHI counts the number of breathing pauses per hour of sleep that you have.
You can find more information about Sleep apnea on our website. Schedule a consultation with Dr.Bloxham if you believe you or your loved one may be suffering from this condition. We have several sleep apnea treatments available.
Persistent headaches can disrupt your daily life, making it hard to focus and enjoy activities. Did you know that sleep disorders and TMJ issues can have connections to headaches? Many people suffer from tension headaches or migraines without realizing their origins may lie in sleep disorders or jaw dysfunction. Poor sleep quality, jaw clenching, or misaligned bite can strain your muscles and lead to chronic pain. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, we take a holistic approach to headache management. By addressing possible underlying causes, we help patients find relief. Steps to Manage Headaches: Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Use relaxation techniques to reduce stress. Seek professional care for persistent pain. Ready to tackle your headaches once and for all? Schedule an evaluation with our team and find relief today.
Do you often experience jaw pain or tension headaches? These could be signs of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. This February, prioritize your well-being by addressing the discomfort that’s been holding you back. TMJ disorders can cause a range of symptoms, including jaw clicking, difficulty chewing, and even ear pain. Left untreated, these issues can worsen over time and make it difficult to fully enjoy life. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, we specialize in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. Our customized treatment plans may include oral splints, physical therapy, and stress-reduction techniques to relieve tension and restore comfort. Home Care Tips for TMJ Relief: Avoid hard or chewy foods. Practice gentle jaw exercises to improve flexibility. Apply heat or ice packs to ease soreness. Don’t let TMJ pain hold you back. Contact us today to learn about your personalized treatment options and see how Dr. Jared Bloxham and team can help you, become you again.
This Valentine’s Day, skip the chocolates and flowers—give yourself, and your partner, the gift of restful, rejuvenating sleep. A good night’s sleep isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for your health, happiness, and relationships. When you’re well-rested, your body and mind function at their best. Sleep helps regulate mood, improves focus, and even strengthens your immune system. Unfortunately, conditions like sleep apnea can disrupt your rest, leaving you feeling tired and irritable. Chronic poor sleep can strain not only your health but also your personal connections. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, we understand the importance of quality sleep. Our personalized treatments, including CPAP alternative oral appliance therapy, can help you wake up refreshed and ready to enjoy life. Simple Tips to Love Your Sleep: Stick to a consistent bedtime. Limit screen time and caffeine before bed. Create a cozy, distraction-free sleep environment. Show yourself some love this February. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward better sleep.
Chronic pain can feel like an unsolvable puzzle. If you experience persistent muscle tension, tenderness, or trigger points, you might be dealing with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). What Is MPS? MPS is a chronic pain disorder caused by sensitivity and tightness in specific areas of muscle tissue, often triggered by stress, poor posture, or injury. Symptoms of MPS Deep, aching muscle pain Sensitivity in specific trigger points Reduced range of motion How We Can Help At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, Dr. Bloxham is well equipped to help you treat your myofascial pain in your head, neck, and face! Take control of chronic pain—schedule an appointment with our expert, Dr. Jared Bloxham, today.
Do you often experience jaw pain or tension headaches? These could be signs of a TMJ disorder, a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint. What Is TMJ Disorder? TMJ disorder occurs when the jaw joint and surrounding muscles become misaligned or strained. Common causes include stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), and jaw injuries. Symptoms of TMJ Disorder Jaw pain or tenderness Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw Limited jaw movement or locking Facial pain or discomfort near the ears Effective Treatments At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, we offer a range of solutions, including: Custom oral splints to relieve and heal Physical therapy to improve jaw mobility Pain management techniques for relief You can also manage mild symptoms at home by practicing gentle jaw stretches, avoiding hard foods, and applying heat or ice packs. Ready to live pain-free? Contact us for a personalized TMJ treatment plan.
Snoring might seem harmless, but it could indicate a more serious condition: sleep apnea. This common yet underdiagnosed disorder can impact your health in surprising ways. What Is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. There are three types: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Caused by throat muscles relaxing too much. Central Sleep Apnea: A brain signal issue that affects breathing. Mixed Sleep Apnea: A combination of both. Symptoms to Watch For Loud, chronic snoring Daytime fatigue or drowsiness Morning headaches Difficulty concentrating or memory problems Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea Left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. It also can affect your quality of life, making everyday tasks more challenging. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, we use the effective alternative to CPAP - Oral Sleep Appliance Therapy - to help you breathe easier and sleep better. Take the first step toward better health—schedule a consultation with Dr. Bloxham today.
As the year comes to a close, it’s a great time to take control of chronic pain that may have been holding you back. TMJ pain can impact everything from chewing to talking, but there are effective treatments to help you start the new year pain-free. TMJ Treatment Options for Lasting Relief Custom Orthotic Therapy: Relieve pressure on the jaw joint and give it the chance to heal while being unloaded. Botox for TMJ: Alleviates muscle pain and can reduce headache symptoms for patients with TMJ-related pain. Lifestyle Changes: Reducing caffeine, practicing jaw exercises, and managing stress are small but powerful ways to help keep TMJ dysfunction symptoms in check. Invest in Your Health There’s no better time to make a commitment to your health. If TMJ pain is affecting your quality of life, our specialist, Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, is here to help you find relief. Start the year off right with a personalized TMJ treatment plan.
The holiday season is filled with celebrations, but it can also bring plenty of stress. For those with TMJ, stress can trigger or worsen jaw pain, headaches, and tension. Here are a few ways to keep TMJ symptoms in check so you can enjoy the holidays pain-free. Holiday Tips for Managing TMJ Pain Eat Soft Foods : Opt for mashed potatoes, soft fruits, and holiday soups instead of crunchy snacks to avoid overworking your jaw. Take Breaks from Chewing Gum : Festive chewing can worsen jaw tension. Give your TMJ a break by skipping gum or chewy candies. Practice Relaxation : A few minutes of mindfulness or deep breathing can help relieve tension in the jaw and reduce pain. End the Year Pain-Free Don't let TMJ pain steal your holiday cheer. Our office offers personalized TMJ treatment options to help you feel your best during the holidays and into the new year.
Holiday travel can be challenging, especially for those with sleep apnea. CPAP machines are essential for many, but if you’re looking for a travel-friendly option, an oral sleep appliance might be the solution! Doesn’t take up much space - can fit in your toiletry bag or your purse! They don’t require electricity either! Sleep Apnea Travel Tips Consider an Oral Sleep Appliance: Custom oral sleep appliances from Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ are easier to travel with than CPAP machines and help keep your airway open, making them a practical solution for vacations. Plan for Overnight Stays : Whether staying with family or in a hotel, ensure you have everything you need for your treatment. Bringing your device will keep you on track with your sleep apnea management. Prioritize Your Sleep Health : Poor sleep quality can lead to fatigue, irritability, and even affect your immune system—so make sure your sleep apnea is well treated during holiday travels. Conclusion Oral sleep appliances are ideal for those who need a convenient, effective way to manage sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders while traveling. Schedule a consultation before the holidays to see if this could be your new go-to sleep solution - call Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ today at 509-581-4456.
The holidays are meant to be restful, but for many, snoring and sleep apnea can disturb the peace of the season. If you or a loved one struggle with snoring, an oral appliance could be the answer to a “silent night” everyone can enjoy. How Oral Appliances Help Reduce Snoring Oral appliances are custom-fitted to keep your airway open while you sleep, effectively reducing snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea symptoms. They’re portable, easy to use, and perfect for traveling during the holiday season. Give the Gift of Restful Sleep Imagine starting the new year well-rested! Schedule a consultation with our sleep apnea specialists to learn how an oral appliance can help everyone in the household get a peaceful night’s sleep.
CONTACT
1363 Columbia Park Trail, Suite 101,
Richland, WA 99352
info@columbiatmjandpain.com
(509) 578-5774
Monday: 8 AM – 12 PM
Tuesday - Thursday: 8 AM - 3:30 PM
Friday: 8 AM – 12 PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
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