Waking Up Exhausted? Why Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome Could Be the Culprit

Do you sleep for eight hours but still wake up feeling drained? You might not have classic sleep apnea but instead are struggling with upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS). 

At Chelsea Dental Aesthetics in New York City, Dr. David A. Blaustein helps patients identify structural issues that ruin sleep. Here’s what he wants his patients to know about UARS.

UARS is a condition where your airway narrows as you sleep, forcing your body to work much harder to breathe. This extra effort triggers brief brain wave awakenings that ruin your sleep quality. 

If you’re tired of constant fatigue, our Manhattan team is here to help.

How does UARS differ from sleep apnea?

Many people believe you must stop breathing entirely to have a sleep disorder. With UARS, you don’t experience the complete airway blockages or major oxygen drops that are characteristic of classic sleep apnea.

Instead, your airway simply narrows, creating constant resistance when you inhale. This resistance forces your brain to wake up for a split second to keep you breathing. These micro-awakenings prevent you from reaching deep, restorative sleep, leaving you exhausted.

How is this hidden sleep issue diagnosed?

Because UARS doesn’t cause large drops in oxygen, standard home sleep tests often miss it. If you suspect a sleep disorder but a home test came back negative, consider scheduling an in-lab sleep study.

In-lab sleep studies use brain wave sensors to detect the microscopic arousals that basic home monitors often miss. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward restoring quality sleep and reclaiming your energy.

How can a dentist help treat UARS?

You don’t always need a loud, bulky CPAP machine to treat airway resistance. For adults with mild to moderate sleep-disordered breathing, custom oral appliances are often sufficient.

These devices work by gently holding your lower jaw and tongue in a forward position while you sleep. This mechanical shift keeps your airway open, preventing the soft tissues from vibrating or collapsing.

At our office in the city’s Chelsea neighborhood, we offer custom oral appliances and comprehensive TMJ treatment to improve airway health.

When you visit us, we thoroughly assess your jaw, teeth, and bite. This personalized approach ensures your oral appliance fits comfortably and works effectively.

Don’t let chronic exhaustion control your days. If you’re ready to explore how a custom oral appliance can restore your sleep, schedule a visit with Dr. Blaustein today.