Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by abnormal pauses in breathing or instances of abnormally low breathing during sleep. Each lapse in breathing can last ten seconds to multiple minutes, and may occur 5 to 30+ times an hour. This disorder prevents deep sleep that refreshes the body, and sufferers are frequently drowsy during the day.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are three forms of sleep apnea. The most common is called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and represents about 84 percent of cases. It occurs due to a physical block of airflow, commonly resulting in snoring. Though rare, during Central Sleep Apnea (CSA), breathing is interrupted by a lack of respiratory effort. Some people suffer from mixed or complex sleep apnea, which is a combination of OSA and CSA.

Signs of Sleep Apnea

Oftentimes, an individual with sleep apnea is unaware of having difficulty breathing, even after waking up short of breath. Others witnessing the individual during episodes usually reveal the problem.

The following symptoms can indicate the presence of sleep apnea. If you notice one or more of these, we would be happy to refer you to a sleep apnea specialist.

• Daytime fatigue
• Slower reaction time
• Vision problems
• Difficulty paying attention or working effectively
• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
• Sleep paralysis
• Loud snoring at night
• Waking up at night short of breath
• Snorting or choking sounds during the night
• Headaches in the morning

Treatment

Sleep apnea treatment commonly begins with behavioral therapy. Patients who begin sleeping on their side often report improvements. Additionally, we are able to fabricate an oral device designed to shift the lower jaw forward to open the airway.