Sleep apnea has been affecting sufferers for a very long time, but is still not fully understood. It is also far more common than most would think; it’s estimated that as many as 1 in every 15 Americans have sleep apnea. Many consider sleep apnea to be annoying, but not really serious. That is completely untrue.
What is Sleep Apnea?
This refers to a person’s breathing being interrupted repeatedly while they sleep and can occur hundreds of times during the night. Lack of sufficient oxygen to the brain and the body leads to fatigue and other problems.
Many of those with this condition remain undiagnosed. It requires a monitored sleep study to make a definitive diagnosis. Common symptoms are loud snoring, short periods of not breathing while sleeping, insomnia, sleepiness during the day, headaches, mood changes and forgetfullness.
Problems Related to Sleep Apnea
Fatigue caused by lack of healthy sleep causes those with sleep apnea to not only be much more likely to be involved in a traffic accident, but to have a six times greater risk of dying in an accident. Drowsy driving is held responsible for over 40,000 injuries and 1,550 deaths in auto accidents. Lack of energy and fatigue also results in poor performance at school and jobs and may cause relationship difficulties.
Untreated sleep apnea is implicated in a number of health problems, including strokes, heart problems and high blood pressure. Diabetes is also linked to this issue. Sufferers can become clinically depressed and those with ADHD may realize that their condition is becoming worse.
Treatment for Sleep Apnea
Mild cases can be alleviated by weight loss, avoidance of alcohol and tobacco. Changing sleeping position may help; sleeping on the back is the worst position.
The cause of sleep apnea for most is a blockage of the airway. Various masks or dental devices are available and may prove helpful with Sleep Apnea In Bethlehem PA. For severe cases, surgery to correct the underlying physical problem is a good solution. Those who have enlarged tonsils, a deviated nasal septum or other problems should investigate this option.
Allen ENT provides comprehensive care to their Pennsylvania patients who have ear, nose, throat, neck or head problems. Those suffering from severe Sleep Apnea In Bethlehem PA will receive excellent surgical care. Their surgeons are Board Certified and Fellows of the American Academy of Otolaryngology, among other professional credentials.
