Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a potentially serious sleep-disordered breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is serious and life long medical condition that affects between 18 and 30 mg and also over the age of 18 the US. OSA is a chronic lifelong medical condition that can affect her sleep, health and quality of life. It has been linked to hypertension diabetes heart disease work and driving-related accidents and stroke.
One of the most common signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea is loud and chronic snoring. Causes may occur in snoring. Choking or gasping may follow deposits. These brief periods of breathing cessation don’t trigger full alertness that disrupt sleep enough to leave supper is groggy in the morning, and at risk for a number of more serious health problems often without even realizing there is a problem. He likely won’t noted to having problems breathing or be able to judge how severe the problem. A family member or bed partner often will notice these problems before you do.
Left untreated sleep apnea can have serious and life shortening consequences. High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, automobile accidents caused by falling asleep at the wheel, depression and many other health issues have been linked to sleep apnea.
Major signs and symptoms of sleep apnea:
- Waking up with a dry or sore throat
- Loud snoring
- Occasionally waking up with a choking or gasping sensation
- Sleepiness and lack of energy during the day
- Sleepiness while driving
- Morning headaches
- Restless sleep
- Forgetfulness, mood changes and decreased interest in sex
- Recurrent awakenings or insomnia
Patients with high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease are at especially high risk for OSA. Weight gain can worsen symptoms.
Sleep apnea can be diagnosed by conducting a sleep study. Sleep studies can be performed in sleep centers where the patient sleeps overnight under direct monitoring or in a home setting. Your physician will help guide the decision regarding which test is appropriate for you.
Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea starts with weight management and addressing any nasal obstruction or congestion.
CPAP or continuous positive airway pressure consists of a mask placed over the nose or mouth. The mask is connected to blower by flexible tubing. CPAP works by creating a positive pressure in her upper airway so that the tissues cannot collapse.
Dental devices are also commonly prescribed as treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. This custom fitted dental device works by moving the lower jaw forward and creating more space at the back of the airway preventing collapse.
Various types of upper airway expanding surgery are sometimes used for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. A new implantable surgical device that stimulates the muscles of the tongue is now available for severe sleep apnea in patients who cannot tolerate other treatments.
Although there are many available options for treatment for obstructive sleep apnea make sure you discuss the right option for you with your physician. Pick the best and most comfortable treatment option for you because the most important thing is to stick with the treatment!
