Sleep Apnea
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) affects 5% to 8% of the population. OSA develops as a result of a narrowing of the air passages with the onset of sleep. This occurs because the muscles in the throat, just like the rest of the muscles of the body, relax with sleep onset. The airway becomes narrowed as the tissues are drawn together during inspiration. The movement of the tissue produces the snoring sound. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.
People with OSA have disturbed sleep and low blood oxygen levels. Loud snoring, with episodes of pauses and gasps during which the snorer struggles unsuccessfully to breathe, is a prominent symptom of OSA. Snoring is present in 90% to 95% of patients with OSA. People with sleep apnea don't get enough oxygen and their sleep is poor.
The most common symptoms of Sleep Apnea include:
- Snoring
- Insomnia
- Inability to breathe throuh nostrils
- Impotence
- Morning headaches
- Depression
- Breathing pauses during sleep
- Daily sore throats
- Nightly insomnia
- Excessive daytime fatigue
Sleep apnea is a potentially serious condition and an individual with OSA may not be aware that a problem exists. Nonsurgical and surgical treatments options are available. Please contact us for a thorough analysis.