Sleep Apnea
Are you drowsy during the day without any explanation? Do you snore at night, or find yourself waking up short of breath in the middle of the night? If so, you might be one of twelve million Americans affected by sleep apnea!
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing stops during sleep as many as 20-30 times per hour. Each time your breathing stops, the lack of oxygen acts as an alert to your brain to temporarily wake up to restart breathing properly. Most people do not even remember waking up in their sleep because it is for such a brief period of time.
Most people think that they are getting a good night sleep, when in reality the constant waking up disrupts the deep sleep that is supposed to refresh the body. These people are frequently drowsy during the day.
Signs of sleep apnea:
If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should give Dr. Jennifer a call and she can help further diagnose the condition with you.
- Insomnia or trouble sleeping
- Loud snoring
- Snorting or Choking sounds at night
- Waking up short of breath at night
- Headaches upon waking up
- Unexplained drowsiness through the day
- Falling asleep unintentionally during the day
Types of Sleep apnea
There are three categories of sleep apnea. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. This occurs because there is a physical blockage of tissue in the back of the throat. Another type, which is less common is called central sleep apnea, or CSA. The muscles that are used for proper breathing do not receive the right signal from the brain, and breathing is stopped. The last type of apnea is called "mixed" or sometimes referred to as "complex" sleep apnea. This is a combination of obstructive and central.
Risk Factors
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Drinking
- Sedative use
- High blood pressure
- Family History
Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in males over the age of 40. Anyone however, regardless of any age or gender can suffer from sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea is more often found in those with a heart condition, or neuromuscular disorder, stoke, or brain tumor. It is also more common in the male population. If it is left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in males over the age of 40. Anyone however, regardless of any age or gender can suffer from sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea is more often found in those with a heart condition, or neuromuscular disorder, stoke, or brain tumor. It is also more common in the male population. If it is left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart failure or even a stroke. The ongoing fatigue leads to problems at work or school, as well as danger when operating a vehicle or heavy machinery.
Treatments
Treatment depends on the severity of the problem and type of apnea. Some types of apnea can be treated with behavioral treatment, such as losing weight, or lying on your side while sleeping. More serious case may require the use of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device or an oral device that can be made by your dentist. The oral appliance works by positioning the mouth in a way that can prevent the blockage in the throat. Sometimes surgery is the best option in very serious cases.
If you or someone you know suffer from sleep apnea, give Dr. Jennifer a call. We may refer you to a sleep apnea specialist where they recommend a sleep study to diagnose the extent of the apnea. From there the proper treatment can be assessed. If treatment proposed involves an oral device, Dr. Jennifer can help you with your sleep apnea condition.
