Sleep Apnea

Finding Relief from Sleep Apnea: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Do you suspect that you have sleep apnea? Curious about the different types and how they’re treated? Learn about the symptoms, types, and treatments available from the sleep experts at Pinnacle ENT.

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for overall health, but for those suffering with sleep apnea, restful sleep can be elusive. Sleep apnea is a common disorder that approximately 39 million U.S. adults have, and it can lead to restless nights and a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder that interrupts breathing during sleep, causing it to stop and start repeatedly dozens of times per hour. This condition is often associated with loud snoring and can lead to significant health problems, like high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes if left untreated.

How Do You Know If You Have Sleep Apnea?

Identifying the signs of sleep apnea is the first step toward getting the appropriate treatment for your condition.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:

  • Snoring
  • Gasping for air
  • Insomnia
  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Morning headaches
  • Dry mouth when waking

These symptoms can vary in severity, but if you notice any of them, especially in combination, it’s important to consult our team of sleep specialists.

Are There Different Types of Sleep Apnea?

Yes, sleep apnea comes in several forms, each with different causes and treatment approaches.

Types of Sleep Apnea:

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
    • The most common type of sleep apnea, OSA occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much, blocking airflow.
    • Risk factors include obesity, thicker neck circumference, narrow throat, being male, older age, alcohol and sedative use, and certain medications.
  • Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
    • CSA happens when the brain fails to send the correct signals to the muscles that control breathing.
    • Risk factors include heart disorders, stroke, being male, older age, and the use of narcotic pain medications.
  • Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome
    • This condition is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep disorders.

Understanding which type of sleep apnea you have is crucial for effective treatment.

How Is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?

Diagnosing sleep apnea typically involves discussing your symptoms and history with a specialist, followed by a sleep study. This study can be conducted at home or in a medical facility and measures key indicators while you sleep, such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and breathing patterns. Using your medical history and the results of your sleep study, our sleep specialists can accurately diagnose your sleep apnea and recommend the most effective treatment.

How is Sleep Apnea Treated?

By far the most common treatment for sleep apnea is the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. These devices deliver a steady stream of air through a mask worn during sleep, keeping the airway open and preventing interruptions in breathing.

Another possible treatment option is an oral appliance like a mouthguard, which adjusts the position of the jaw and holds the tongue in place to keep airways open.

At Pinnacle ENT, our team will work with you to find the best treatment option for your individual sleep apnea symptoms, helping you achieve restful sleep and improved overall health.

Untreated sleep apnea can have serious consequences, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can regain control of your sleep and your health. If you suspect you have sleep apnea — don’t wait! Contact us today to schedule an appointment so you can enjoy peaceful, uninterrupted sleep once more.

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