Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is the most common of all sleeping disorders. An estimated 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. 28 percent of men over the age of 65 suffer from sleep apnea.

Snoring, the sound of partially obstructed breathing during sleep, can be a sign of the more serious medical condition called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when the tongue and soft tissue in the mouth fall back into the throat, completely blocking the airway during sleep. Individuals with OSA will stop breathing in their sleep, which causes decreased oxygen in blood and increases the blood pressure and pressure on the heart.

Many medical conditions and problems are associated with OSA. Up to 50 percent of sleep apnea patients have high blood pressure. Risk of heart attack and stroke is also increased in those with sleep apnea.

Overweight individuals and those with a neck size greater than 17 inches are at risk of having OSA. The most common symptoms include daytime drowsiness and fatigue. Other symptoms with OSA can include morning headaches, night sweats, frequent nighttime urination, erectile dysfunction and restless leg syndrome. An Epworth Sleepiness Scale questionairre can be taken to see if you suffer from OSA.

The scores for the eight questions are added to obtain a single number. A number in the range 0–9 is considered to be normal while a number in the range 10–24 is considered to indicate that specialist medical advice should be recommended.

Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea is made with a sleep study. This study can be done in a sleep lab or in the comfort of your own home. Once diagnosed correctly, treatment options for OSA will depend on the severity. Mild to moderate cases of OSA or snoring can be treated with a simple Oral Appliance that is worn in the mouth during sleep. Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) involves the selection, design, fitting and use of a specially designed oral appliance that maintains an opened and unobstructed airway during sleep. For severe OSA, treatment includes a medical device called a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), used with or without the combination of oral appliance therapy, as well as surgery.

To make an appointment, and find out if an Oral Appliance is right for you, call 919.460.9665 or fill out the contact form to the right.

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