Sleep Apnea
Overview
Sleep Apnea is a sleeping disorder that occurs when breathing is interrupted by a lack of respiratory effort while sleeping. The pauses in between the shallow breathing can last from a few seconds to minutes, causing drops in blood oxygen levels. There are behavioral and cognitive effects of sleep apnea that can come to light in the waking state. In extreme cases, sleep apnea may trigger seizures or even cause death.
Types of Sleep Apnea
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Central sleep apnea
- Complex sleep apnea
Risk Factors
Certain factors may increase your risk of sleep apnea.
- Overweight or obese
- Being male
- Being older
- Having a narrow throat
- High blood pressure
- Having a thin neck
- Family history
- Use of alcohol or sedatives
- Smoking
- Inactivity
- Stroke or brain tumor
- Heart disorders
Symptoms
Contact your doctor if your or your partner exhibits any of the symptoms below.
- Loud snoring
- Excessive daytime drowsiness
- Morning headache
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth or sore throat when waking
- Abrupt awakenings with shortness of breath
Tests
If your healthcare provider suspects sleep apnea, specialists at our sleep center will give you diagnostic tests to determine the best course of treatment.
- Overnight test monitoring & recording
- Nocturnal polysomnography
- Portable monitoring devices
Treatment
Depending on the severity of your case, a variety of treatment options are available.
- Lifestyle changes
- Quit smoking
- Lose weight
- Therapies
- Oral applications
- Surgery
