OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA

When breathing is interrupted by episodes of obstruction, it is known as obstructive sleep apnea. Serious episodes last more than ten seconds each and occur more than seven times per hour. Apnea sufferers may experience 30 to 300 such events a night. An estimated18 million Americans have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, and the condition is more prevalent in men (4% of middle-aged men and 2% of middle-aged women).

Is obstructive sleep apnea dangerous to my health?

Because sleep apnea causes a person to stop breathing several times an hour during sleep, oxygen levels in the blood drop, forcing the heart to pump harder. The immediate effect of sleep apnea is that one must sleep lightly and keep his muscles tense in order to keep airflow to the lungs. Because the individual does not get a good rest, he may be sleepy during the day, which impairs job performance and makes him a hazardous driver or equipment operator. Many people with sleep apnea experience irritability, depression, morning headaches, and memory and concentration problems. After many years with this disorder, elevated blood pressure, irregular heart rate, and heart enlargement may occur.

Can obstructive sleep apnea be treated?

First, a physician must assess the severity of the sleep apnea. Typically, an overnight sleep test is used to evaluate breathing patterns and identify possible sleep disturbances, such as obstructive sleep apnea. After a careful assessment of a patient’s medical history and physical examination, the physician will discuss the diagnostic alternatives available and recommend the best treatment.

National Sleep Foundation : www.sleepfoundation.org

American Sleep Apnea Association : www.sleepapnea.org