Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea
Are you tired during the day? Do you snore or wake up breathless in the middle of the night? You could be one of 12 million Americans affected by sleep apnea and an early diagnosis could save your life.
What is sleep apnea?
Someone with sleep apnea will periodically stop breathing throughout the night, sometimes as often as 20-30 times per hour or more. Each time you stop breathing, the lack of oxygen signals your brain to wake you up. The time awake needed to restart breathing is brief, so most people do not even realize they are waking up during the night. This constant disruption in your sleep cycle will prevent you from entering deep sleep, which will result in a drowsy feeling throughout the day.
Signs of sleep apnea
Drowsiness during the day or waking up feeling unrefreshed
Morning headaches
Loud snoring at night or snorting or choking sounds
Waking up frequently to use the bathroom
Forgetfulness
Who can have sleep apnea?
Anyone–regardless of age or gender–can have sleep apnea, although it is more common in males and older adults (40+). Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, drinking, use of sedatives/tranquilizers, and family history.
Is sleep apnea dangerous?
Yes! Untreated sleep apnea can lead to many medical conditions including high blood pressure, increased risk of stroke and heart disease, and traffic fatalities due to falling asleep at the wheel. Treatment for sleep apnea depends on severity of the case. Some patients may be instructed to lose weight, stop smoking, or sleep on their sides instead of their back. Oral devices can also be used to position the mouth to prevent throat blockage or help those who cannot tolerate a C-PAP machine. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
What should I do if I think I have sleep apnea?
Contact your physician or our office and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist. A sleep study will likely be prescribed to determine the severity and extent of your sleep apnea and appropriate treatment. If an oral device is a necessary part of your treatment, we can create that for you.