Loud snoring, morning headaches, and forgetfulness are just a few of the symptoms of sleep apnea. Experts estimate that about 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea to some degree. Here we will address the symptoms and treatment for sleep apnea. First, let’s identify what sleep apnea is.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea can happen when the upper airway gets repeatedly blocked while sleeping. This blockage can hinder or fully halt the flow of air. This form is called obstructive sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain fails to send the correct signals required to breathe.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should arrange a consultation with Bay Area Cosmetic Surgery.
Constant awakenings throughout the night
Consistent forgetfulness, mood changes, or a decreased interest in sex
Feeling tired while driving
Low energy and lethargy during the day
Waking up with a gasping or choking sensation
Waking up with a dry or a sore throat
What are the treatment and diagnosis?
If you have any of the signs above of sleep apnea, your doctor may have you take a test called a polysomnogram. This can be done at home or a specialized sleep disorder center. During your sleep study test, you will spend the night in a private bedroom at a special lab where you can be monitored throughout the night. The results will help your doctor determine the extent of your sleep apnea. Other tests for sleep apnea may include an EEG, which records brain wave activity, or an EMG, which monitors muscle activity.
Treatment for mild cases of sleep apnea includes: changing sleep positions, no longer smoking, avoiding alcohol, or losing weight. More severe forms of the condition can be treated by using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), during which a mask is worn over the nose and mouth while you sleep. Nasal surgery, Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or mandibular maxillar advancement surgery may also be used.
Schedule a consultation
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with Bay Area Laser Cosmetic Surgery Center today. You can reach our office by calling (510) 724-8282 (Pinhole) or (415) 461-5755 (Larkspur).
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on Sunday, April 15th, 2018 at 6:17 am and is filed under Sleep Apnea.
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