Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy in Bellevue, WA

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! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Is at Risk for Sleep Apnea While Pregnant?
What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy?
If I develop sleep apnea during pregnancy, will I have it for the rest of my life?
Who Is at Risk for Sleep Apnea While Pregnant?

All pregnant women have an increased risk of developing sleep apnea. Being overweight or having gained substantial weight during pregnancy causes a higher risk of the sleep disorder. Extra neck tissue can block the airway and make breathing especially difficult. Congestion from allergies or illness also increases your risk. 

What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy?

Sleep apnea occurs when you stop breathing, causing you to wake up and gasp for air repeatedly throughout the night. Though snoring during pregnancy is common, making gasping noises while sleeping and feeling exhausted the next morning is not. 

If you or your partner notice breathing issues at night, it’s worth getting checked by a sleep apnea specialist like Dr. Doneskey.

If I develop sleep apnea during pregnancy, will I have it for the rest of my life?

If your obstructive sleep apnea comes on during your pregnancy, there is evidence that it will improve after you deliver. Since many studies indicate that sleep apnea improves or goes away with weight loss, your OSA symptoms should subside. However, it is still imperative that you treat your sleep apnea while you have it and monitor your symptoms after your baby is born. 

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