What
is Sleep Apnea
This is
a condition of temporary closure of the upper respiratory passage
airway during sleep. This leads to frequent cessation of breathing
for ten seconds or more (apnea). Apnea events of 20 per hour
is pathological. It can lead to serious life long complications
which are preventable through treatment.
The
seriousness of Obstructive Sleep Apnea is often ignored because
of the humorous nature of the two primary complaints by patients.
Patients often suffer for years before getting help!
Complications
and Presentation
Epidemiology,
and Complications
Causes
and Association of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive
Sleep Apnea is caused upper respiratory airway structure collapse
due to loss of pharyngeal muscular tone during sleep. This is
often observed in overweight males, particularly those individuals
with large necks.
Frequency
Obstructive
Sleep Apnea affects 1% to 2% of the total population. 5% (one
in twenty) of the target population (i.e.. Males between age
25 and 55, being overweight) are affected.
Complications
and Progression
Oxygen
deficiency for various body tissues particularly vital organs
such as the heart and brain leads to high blood pressure, health
problems and possible stroke. Narcolepsy like syndromes increase.
Deprivation
of Deep Sleep Stages
Motor
vehicle accidents and industrial occupational injuries increase
because of sleepiness. Effects of Obstructive Sleep Apnea are
often equal to the effect of alcohol intoxication on motor performance.
Behavioral
Problems, Presentation
Patients
are often suffering from the following:
Home
Environment - a couple
are frequently sleeping apart because of loud snoring
Work
Environment - poor job
performance, the person may be perceived as being lazy
Socially
Observed - irritability,
poor tolerance, loss of interest, unable to socialize because
of fatigue and sleepiness and depression
Treatment
Moderate
Form of Obstructive Sleep Apnea is
helped through alcohol elimination, weight reduction and
regular exercise and avoiding sleeping on your back during
helps.
Severe
Form of Obstructive Sleep Apnea is
treated by the use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
(CPAP). This prevents collapse of upper respiratory passage
airway during sleep by maintaining positive airway pressure.
Referral
Procedures
- Depending
on insurance, please call.
