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Sleep disordered breathing is a general term for a number of conditions that cause abnormal breathing during sleep. Some of these conditions include snoring, Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome, and Sleep Apnea. The most common form of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) is obstructive sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is defined as partial or complete obstruction of the airway. OSA can cause someone to pause breathing up to hundreds of times each night. If you feel that you are struggling with disrupted breathing, it is important to find medical help.
Untreated OSA can increase the risk of a number of diseases, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some headache syndromes. Unfortunately many people with sleep apnea are unaware they have it.
What are the Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
The most common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include:
Loud Snoring
Paused Breathing During Sleep
Gasping for Air During Sleep
Dry Mouth
Headache
Insomnia
Excessive Sleepiness in the Daytime
Irritability
When to see an ENT for a sleep disorder?
ENT doctors specialize in the structure of the upper airway, which is the primary area affected in sleep apnea. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, making an appointment with an ENT for a proper evaluation is your next step.
Sleep Disordered Breathing and Sleep Apnea will be diagnosed through a sleep study.
Treatment Options
The most common treatment for Sleep Disordered Breathing is a CPAP machine. This therapy requires the individual to wear a mask connected to a machine over the nose and mouth while sleeping. During the night, the CPAP pumps pressurized air into the airways to keep them open. The CPAP machine must be used every night.
For severe obstructive sleep, Septoplasty surgery may be needed. Surgery will help to increase the airways minimizing the obstruction. Surgery may also help as part of a comprehensive approach to make the use of the CPAP more effective for the patient. The doctors at Topeka ENT will provide a thorough examination for patients with suspected sleep disorders and help to advise on the best treatment options available.
If you suspect that you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, turn to the experienced specialists at Topeka ENT. Our doctors can perform the appropriate tests and provide you with an immediate diagnosis so you can get the treatment you need. You will be amazed at the relief you feel and how refreshing it will be when your sleep apnea is fully controlled.
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