Sleep Apnea

 

Snoring, Irritable, Tired? Does Your Sleeping Affect You And Your Loved Ones?

 

What is Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SBD)?

SDB refers to a variety of sleep dysfunctions that involve the respiratory system, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea, and others. The most common form of SDB is OSA. Over 1 million Americans suffer from OSA. Approximately 90% of all people with OSA go undiagnosed and untreated.

An apnea is defined as a temporary absence or cessation of breathing, lasting 10 seconds or more. During OSA, the upper airway collapses, obstructing airflow, even as the patient makes effort to breathe. 

Patients that suffer from OSA may also experience hypopneas. Hypopneas are similar to apneas, but instead of a complete cessation of breathing, airflow is reduced for ten seconds or more with an accompanying decrease in oxygen saturation of at least 4%.

 

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Sleep Apnea?

• Gasping or choking during sleep

• Snoring

• Morning headaches

• Sexual dysfunction

• Frequent urination

• High blood pressure

• Excessive sleepiness or fatique

• Poor judgement or concentration

• Restless sleep

• Large neck size

• Obesity

• Irritability

• Memory loss

• Depression

• Bruxism  

 

If You Answer YES To Any Of The Following Questions You Should Schedule An Appointment To Consult With Our Team. 

• Do you snore?

• Do you feel tired or fatiqued during the day?

• Do you have high blood pressure?

• Have you gained weight and find it difficult to lose weight?

• Do you awaken from sleep gasping for air or choking?

• Do you have a headache upon waking in the morning?

• Do you ever fall asleep while driving?

• Do you have unexplained awakenings from sleep?

• Do you notice frequent twitching or jerking of legs while asleep?

• Do you lack energy upon waking?

 

What Happens If Sleep Apnea Is Untreated?

There will be a possible increased risk for the following:

• Heart Attack

• Stroke

• High Blood Pressure

• Fatigue-related motor vehicle and work accidents

 

What Are The Treatments For Sleep Apnea?

• CPAP - CPAP is a machine that treats obstructive sleep apnea by providing a flow of positive-pressure air through a mask to splint the airway open during sleep.

• Oral/Dental Appliance - An oral appliance is a small device that is very similar to an orthodontic retainer. It is worn in the mouth while sleeping to prevent soft throat tissue from collapsing and obstructing the airway. Some of the devices hold the lower jaw forward during sleep, while other appliances directly affect tongue position.

• Surgical Interventions - The most common surgical procedures include Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, Radiofrequency Somnoplasty and the Pillar Procedure.

• Any treatment should include weight loss if needed, exercise, and avoidance of alcohol, sedatives, and hypnotics.

 

Don't let another day go by with sleep apnea. Let our team evaluate you and get you the treatment you need. Request an appointment today.