What is Sleep Apnea?
One in every three Americans suffer from some type of sleep disorder. These disorders can range from insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), narcolepsy, circadian rhythm disorders, parasomnias, sleepwalking, sleep terrors, sleep-related movement disorders, snoring, and more. It is estimated that 87 million people snore, with more than half of them having OSA.
OSA is determined by the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), which measures the number of times a person stops breathing or experiences reduced airflow during sleep. An AHI of less than five occurrences per hour is considered mild sleep apnea, while an AHI of six to fifteen times is classified as chronic sleep apnea.
For further information, you can access the Sleep Evaluation and History Form (PDF) by clicking here.
What Are The Risks of Sleep Apnea?
Here are some possible medical conditions linked to OSA:
- Cardiovascular: Elevated chances of developing systemic hypertension, medication-resistant hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, and heart attack.
- Brain: Increased risk of stroke, brain damage, cognitive impairment, and headaches.
- Metabolic: Higher likelihood of developing diabetes, glucose intolerance, and obesity.
- Systemic: Potential for GERD, depression, impotence, and psychosocial issues.
- Mortality.
* Diseases that are associated with OSA by more than 85%
What Are The Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Here are some common symptoms associated with OSA:
- excessive daytime sleepiness
- poor memory
- clouded intellect
- decreased performance
- depression
- accident prone
- increased appetite
- exercise intolerance
Am I a Candidate for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can result from enlarged tonsils/adenoids, a large tongue, or relaxed throat muscles. Treatment options include surgery, CPAP machines, or oral appliances. A sleep study is necessary for diagnosis, and a specialist such as an ENT, Pulmonologist, or Neurologist will recommend the most suitable treatment. If using a CPAP machine is not feasible, a custom mouth appliance could be a viable alternative. Discuss your options with your doctor, as your insurance may cover the cost with a prescription. The oral appliance is comfortable, portable, and convenient for travel.
