Sleep Apnea
What Is It?
Sleep apnea is a condition in which your breathing stops periodically during sleep, as many as 20–30 times per hour. Each time you stop breathing in your sleep, the resulting lack of oxygen alerts your brain, which temporarily wakes you up to restart proper breathing.
Since the time spent awake is so brief, most people with sleep apnea don’t remember it, and many feel like they are getting a good night’s sleep when, in fact, they are not. The constant wake-sleep, wake-sleep cycle prevents those with sleep apnea from achieving deep sleep, resulting in a constant drowsy feeling during the day.
Signs + Symptoms
Insomnia or
Difficulty Breathing
Loud Snoring
at Night
Headaches Upon
Waking in the Morning
Waking Up at Night
Short of Breath
Extreme Drowsiness
Throughout the Day
Falling Asleep During
the Day Unintentionally
Snorting or Choking Sounds
During the Night
Risk Factors
Listen Up!
Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in males than females, and more common in older adults (40+) than younger adults and children. However, anyone — regardless of gender or age — can suffer from sleep apnea.
Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, drinking, use of sedatives or tranquilizers, and family history. Central sleep apnea strikes most often in people with heart disorders, neuromuscular disorders, strokes, or brain tumors.
Treatment
Alternative to a CPAP Machine
Treatments for sleep apnea depend on the severity of each individual case, and the type of apnea. Basic treatment can be behavioral — for instance, patients are instructed to lose weight, stop smoking, or sleep on their sides instead of on their backs.
Beyond that, oral devices can be used to position the mouth in such a way that prevents throat blockage. In more severe cases, surgery may be the best option.
Where We Come In
More Customized and Comfortable Treatment
Contact our practice, and we can refer you to a sleep apnea specialist. The specialist may recommend a sleep study to diagnose the precise extent of the problem, and can prescribe appropriate treatment. Depending on your situation, treatment may involve an oral device that we can custom-create for you.
Interested?
Let's Go!
Complete Our Form below to Get Your free Sleep Study
Free Sleep Study
HOW IT WORKS: Choose your preferred day and time that works best with your schedule. Once your request is complete, one of our team members will reach out to confirm your appointment time is available.
Please note this page is for requesting an appointment only. If you need to cancel or reschedule an existing appointment, or if you require immediate attention, please call or text our practice directly at (951) 546-4008.
