Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder. In fact, according to the National Sleep Foundation, over 18 million people in this country have sleep apnea. Your ENT specialist can help. Dr. Gordon Siegel at Midwest ENT in Chicago, IL, provides a wide range of ENT services, including diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea.
What You Need To Know About Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition caused by the soft tissue at the back of your throat intermittently relaxing while you sleep. When it relaxes, it blocks your airway, also blocking the needed supply of oxygen from getting to your vital organs, including your brain. The lack of oxygen to your vital organs increases your risk of:
- High blood pressure
- Memory issues
- Stroke
- Heart failure
- Impaired mental and physical ability
Occasional snoring is normal, but you may have sleep apnea if you experience:
- Chronic loud snoring
- Waking up suddenly, gasping or choking for air
- Headaches and a sore throat in the morning
- Fatigue and drowsiness during the day
If you notice any of the signs and symptoms listed above, it’s time to visit your ENT specialist. Your ENT specialist may recommend a sleep study to diagnose sleep apnea or another sleep disorder. If you do have sleep apnea, your ENT specialist may recommend:
A continuous positive airway pressure machine, also known as CPAP. The CPAP has a mask connected to a device which provides a continuous supply of oxygen while you sleep.
An oral mandibular advancement appliance is a small custom-made dental appliance you wear while you sleep. The appliance keeps your lower jaw and tongue in a forward position, keeping your airway open while you sleep.
Want To Know More About Sleep Apnea?
To find out more about sleep apnea, talk with an expert, your ENT specialist. Call Dr. Siegel at Midwest ENT in Chicago, IL. You can reach him in the office by calling (312) 988-7777, so call today.