Is Your Spouse complaining About Your Snoring? Let Pro-Tech Medical Help

SLEEP APNEA

Excessive snoring may be a sign of a serious condition called sleep apnea. Early recognition and treatment of sleep apnea is important because it may be associated with irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. In some cases, the effect of sleep apnea can be death.

During an apneic event, the person is unable to breathe in oxygen and to exhale carbon dioxide, resulting in low levels of oxygen and increased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. The reduction in oxygen and increase in carbon dioxide alert the brain to resume breathing and cause an arousal. With each arousal, a signal is sent from the brain to the upper airway muscles to open the airway; breathing is resumed, often with a loud snort or gasp. Frequent arousals, although necessary for breathing to restart, prevent the patient from getting enough restorative, deep sleep.

For many sleep apnea patients, their spouses are the first ones to suspect that something is wrong, usually from their heavy snoring and apparent struggle to breathe. Coworkers and friends may notice the individual falling asleep during the day at inappropriate times. The patient often does not know he or she has a problem and may not believe it when told. It is important that the person see a doctor for evaluation of the sleep problem.

Diagnostic tests usually are performed in a sleep center.

Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most common effective treatment for sleep apnea. In this procedure, the patient wears a mask over the nose during sleep, and pressure from an air blower forces air through the nasal passages. The air pressure is adjusted so that it is just enough to prevent the throat from collapsing during sleep. The pressure is constant and continuous.

Other forms of treatment may include behavioural therapy, surgery, and dental appliances. To find out if a sleep study might be appropriate for you, start a dialogue with your physician describing your symptoms. Treatment of sleep apnea is covered by most insurances. It could be a new start to a healthier you and possibly save your life.

Let us help you recommend the next step. Contact Pro-Tech Medical, 931-388-3766, and ask for our Respiratory Therapist.