Sleep Apnea Specialist

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which your breathing stops and starts while you sleep. Sleep apnea is a serious health issue that can lead to complications, such as heart problems, metabolic syndrome, or Type 2 diabetes.

There are three main types of sleep apnea, including:

Obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of sleep apnea and affects the muscles in your throat, causing them to relax and obstruct your breathing.

Central sleep apnea

If your brain isn’t sending the signals to your muscles that control breathing, then you have central sleep apnea.

Complex sleep apnea syndrome

Complex sleep apnea syndrome means you have both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

You may be at an increased risk of sleep apnea if you’re overweight or obese or you’re a smoker. Sleep apnea also tends to affect men more than women.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

The symptoms of sleep apnea are similar no matter what type you have. Common symptoms include:

• Gasping for air while your sleep
• Loud snoring
• Irritability
• Difficulty paying attention during the day
• Waking up with a dry mouth
• Headaches

Your sleep partner may also report that you stop breathing when you sleep.

How is sleep apnea diagnosed?

Your specialist at Low Testosterone & Weight Loss Center conducts a comprehensive examination to determine if you have sleep apnea. Your examination may include a review of your symptoms and physical exam. It may also be helpful to bring your sleep partner to the appointment so they can share their observations when you sleep.

While your specialist may be able to diagnose you with sleep apnea, you may be referred to a sleep center for diagnostic testing and determine the type of sleep apnea from which you’re suffering.

How is sleep apnea treated?

Your specialist at Low Testosterone & Weight Loss Center develops an individualized treatment plan for your sleep apnea based on the severity of your sleep disorder. In mild cases, you may be able to alleviate your symptoms by making lifestyle changes, such as:

• Weight loss
• Quit smoking
• Treatment for allergies

If your case is more severe, your specialist may recommend a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to help regulate your breathing while you sleep.

Sleep apnea is a serious medical issue that requires attention and care. For an evaluation, call Low Testosterone & Weight Loss Center today or request an appointment online.