::: Obstructive Sleep Apnea : Life-Threatening Sleeping Disorder

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

It's estimated that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) currently affects more than 13 million people in the United States. Approximately 2% of women and 4% of men over the age of 35 are affected.

A serious sleep disorder, obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where the individual actually stops breathing repeatedly for 10 seconds or longer during sleep. Although common, sleep apnea often goes completely undiagnosed since many sufferers are not even aware it's happening.

This cessation in breathing, or apnea episode, can be a minute or longer in duration and might be repeated as many as a hundred times or more during a single night. The frequent arousals and the inability to achieve or maintain deeper stages of sleep are the main factors which contribute to the debilitation of one's health.

Symptoms & Health Risks

The health risks of obstructive sleep apnea are multi-faceted. Besides being drowsy, fatigued, with lowered energy levels during the day, sleep apnea patients are subject to a variety of negative health issues and social problems due to sleep deprivation.

Some of the obvious signs suggesting OSA are loud snoring, obesity, morning headaches / dry mouth and frequent urination during the night. Other symptoms include nighttime indigestion, problems with memory and concentration, daytime sleepiness, depression, irritability, night sweats and a decreased sex drive.

Left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can also contribute to high blood pressure, hypertension, heart attacks and stroke. Equally dangerous is driving an automobile while being drowsy. Each year thousands of lives are lost due to sleep deprived drivers.

Obstructive sleep apnea is now more common in the U.S. than was previously thought; however, OSA responds well to therapy.

Sleep Apnea Video (low res option)

anatomy with unobstructed pharyngeal region

Normal Airway Breathing Uvula and soft palate are normal size and length; the tongue is positioned forward and normal size.

Abnormal Blocked Airway While Sleeping Several points of obstruction seen; elongated soft palate & enlarged uvula press against the airway opening. Also, a retruding jaw pushes the tongue backwards - further reducing the airway's size.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Depending upon its severity and type, there are several treatment options available to sleep apnea patients. Weight loss is a simple remedy for obstructive sleep apnea since it reduces overall mass in the airway. Where anatomical abnormalities are present, other treatments such as positional therapy, CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), corrective surgery and/or an oral appliance are recommended. Each has its own advantages and shortcomings.

We generally advise most patients to explore reversible methods before considering procedures that are irreversible. First, look for the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea:

loud snoring
gasping for air, or choking sounds followed by silence
morning headaches
un-refreshing sleep
excessive daytime sleepiness
poor concentration
falling asleep while driving
decreased performance at work
reduced interest in sex

Experiencing one or more of these symptoms regularly is an indication you may suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. Your best plan of action is to schedule an appointment with your physician. He will diagnose your condition and recommend you to a sleep specialist. If you reside in the Fort Wayne , IN area, contact our office for an evaluation.

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3825 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46804
(800) 216-2745
FAX: (260) 432-8962
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