SLEEP APNEA
What is sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition characterized by the blocking of your airway as you sleep. This happens when your tongue relaxes and moves to the back of your throat or when the soft tissue in your palate and throat overly relaxes, leading to a narrowed or obstructed airway. The reduced space for airflow results in intense snoring due to the vibration of air against the tissue. Moreover, whenever the airway gets completely blocked, your body triggers a brief awakening due to insufficient oxygen. While you may not always be conscious of these momentary disruptions if you have sleep apnea, they interfere with your natural sleep cycles.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Your partner might be the first to notice signs of obstructive sleep apnea, such as loud snoring. Other indications that you could be suffering from this condition include:
- Waking up with a choking or gasping sensation
- Experiencing headaches in the morning
- Feeling excessively sleepy during the day
- Having restless sleep
- Feeling extremely fatigued
- Nocturia, or waking up several times in the night to urinate
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can give us a call to schedule an appointment to learn how you can get screened for obstructive sleep apnea.
What are the treatments for sleep apnea?
If you’re suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, one of the most effective solutions is positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. Our experienced medical team will guide you in selecting the most appropriate PAP machine tailored to your specific sleep disorder, and provide instructions on its usage. Additionally, we offer PAP resupply directly from our office. Depending on the severity of your condition, other treatments like oral appliances or positional therapy may be recommended. There are also various surgical procedures available that focus on removing excessive tissue from the throat, mouth, or tongue, or adjusting the position of the jaw. Another innovative treatment option is the InspireⓇ implantable device, which works in sync with your natural breathing process from within your body. If persistent snoring and interrupted sleep are troubling you, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Give us a call to schedule an appointment to explore the right sleep apnea treatment for you.