Do you wake up feeling tired? Does your snoring affect your loved ones?

Do you have high blood pressure that you just can’t seem to get under control? …

You may have obstructive sleep apnea…

sleep apnea.jpg

What is obstructive sleep apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a where the entire upper airway is blocked causing airflow to stop. It affects over 25 million American adults and if left untreated can lead to a host of issues to include death.

OSA has been associated with:

  • Myocardial Infarction (stroke)

  • Congestive Heart Failure

  • Reflux

  • High Blood Pressure

  • Tooth Grinding

  • Diabetes

  • Cancer

  • Impotence

Just to name a few…

 

HOW DO I GET TESTED?

There are two types of tests available to test for sleep apnea: Polysomnography (PSG) or a home sleep test (HST).

PSG is a test performed at a sleep clinic where you will be monitored the entire night for changes in your breathing. This is the most extensive test and can give you the most accurate and complete data set. PSG is the gold standard, however, some people do not feel comfortable sleeping in a clinical setting and would prefer the HST which is a test that can be done in the comfort of your own home. HST are not as detailed as PSG, however, can aid in your diagnosis of OSA.

what are options for treatment?

Sleep apena can be treated with a CPAP device. CPAP (continuous positive air pressure) devices consist of a mask attached via tubing a small box which has a motorized fan inside. This fan very quietly draws air from the room, gently pressurizes it, then delivers it at a setting specific to your needs. When patients are not able to tolerate the CPAP, or have a mild case of apnea, oral apnea devices are prescribed due to their comfort, ease of use, portability, and lack of noise.