Sleep apnea, a medical condition that causes short periods of severe respiratory blockage at night during sleep, is well-known amongst dentists and doctors alike. Sleep apnea can be a problem if you or your partner have difficulty breathing at night, skip breaths, or snore excessively. To help you fall asleep faster and stay healthy for longer, it is important to schedule an appointment with your trusted sleep doctor in NYC as soon as possible. So, is sleep apnea a common condition?
Is Sleep Apnea a Common Condition?
Some of the biggest questions our patients have about this condition include: What are the signs of sleep apnea? Is sleep apnea a common condition? How can sleep apnea be treated? Let’s answer these questions and more as we dive into the most important sleep apnea issues so that you can advocate for the best possible sleep treatment ASAP.
What is Sleep Apnea? Is it Common?
There are many types of sleep apnea, but the most common one is obstructive. This happens when your airways become blocked temporarily by the relaxation of the respiratory muscles at the back of your throat. You are unable to breathe because your blood oxygen and blood levels have dropped. To try to wake itself up, your body will gasp, choke and snort in an attempt to force you to breathe. Although it might occur while you are sleeping, it will keep you awake and alert throughout the night.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea can be fatal if it isn’t treated quickly. You or your partner may be able to better identify the most obvious signs of sleep apnea when you are well informed. The presence of the below symptoms will alert you that it is time for you to visit your specialist doctor:
- You may gasp for air or choke on the pillow after you wake up.
- Snoring during the night
- Constant stress
- Trouble falling asleep or insomnia
- Frequent headaches in the mornings and evenings
- You feel tired throughout the day, especially at work
- In a coma
- Anxiety and depression
- Modifications in mood
- Forgetfulness
Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of sleep apnea. You are at risk if you have a history of sleep disorder, sudden weight gain, or if you smoke and drink alcohol. If you suffer from sleep apnea, you may experience mood and happiness issues.
Getting the Best Sleep Apnea Treatment
Your first step to treating sleep apnea should be to consult a sleep doctor. It is crucial to identify the cause of sleep apnea after diagnosing it. This condition can be caused by factors such as depression, anxiety, stress, diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions. You may be prescribed one or more of these treatments after you have determined the cause of your sleep apnea:
CPAP Device
A CPAP machine is the most popular treatment for sleep apnea. It is a mask that is worn over the nose and mouth during sleep. This machine releases air steadily into the respiratory system, which will help you sleep better. It will reduce the symptoms of snoring.
Upper Airway Stimulation
Upper airway stimulation may be required for severe cases of sleep apnea. This is similar to a pacemaker that your heart uses, only it encourages the opening of your breathing pathways. It is surgically placed in your chest. This device helps to keep your airways open during sleep. It will make it easier for you to breathe at night because your body is not under constant strain.
Sleep Apnea Surgery
Surgery can be used to keep your airways open if all else fails. To make it easier for you to breathe, the surgeon may remove any excess tissue from your throat and nasal cavity. Every patient is unique and each type of sleep apnea procedure is different, so it can be difficult to determine what kind of treatment is best for you until you speak with your doctor directly during a personal consultation.
The Best Sleep Apnea Treatment in NYC
Sleep apnea gets worse every night when it isn’t treated. Whether your symptoms or mild or severe, you can get help for this condition by visiting your sleep doctor right away. Your sleep health has a direct impact on your mental and physical well-being. It’s important that you see your trusted team of doctors as soon as possible. Contact us to learn more about getting top-notch sleep apnea treatment in NYC with a certified team of professionals.
