Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a condition in which the upper airway partially or completely collapses during sleep causing absence of breathing (apnea), breathing too shallowly (hypopnea), and respiratory related arousals (RERAs).
Central Sleep Apnea
Central Sleep Apnea is a condition in which the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control your breathing while you sleep. This results in repetitive apneas from decreased airflow or ventilation.
Risks of Untreated sleep apnea
When you stop breathing while you sleep, you are depriving your vital organs with oxygen. Your heart has to work harder and harder over time and this can lead to enlargement of the heart, abnormal heart rhythm, blood clots, and stroke. In addition, you are not rested as a result of poor sleep. This can interfere with your daily life and activities as well as put your family and others at risk if you fall asleep while driving.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Snoring
Waking up frequently at night
Waking up choking or gasping for air
Feeling unrefreshed after waking up from sleep
Needing to take naps during the day
Falling asleep at the wheel
Diagnosis and Treatment of Sleep Apnea
If you suspect you or a loved one has sleep apnea, it is important to be evaluated by a sleep certified physician. At your consultation appointment a formal sleep evaluation will be conducted and you and your physician will determine which type of sleep testing is best for you.
Treatment for sleep apnea focuses on positive airway pressure or PAP therapy such as a CPAP or BiPAP device. Your sleep physician will use the information gathered in your sleep study to determine what level of pressure is needed to eliminate your apnea as well as keep you comfortable so that you can sleep without difficulty.