Sleep apnea is more than just loud snoring. It’s a serious medical condition that affects how you breathe during sleep and can impact your overall health, energy levels, and quality of life. At Midwest ENT in Chicago, Dr. Gordon J. Siegel and his team help patients understand what’s causing their sleep struggles and what can be done to improve both sleep and daytime function.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much, causing a blockage in the airway. There are also less common forms, including central sleep apnea, which involves disrupted signals between the brain and the muscles that control breathing.
Signs You May Have Sleep Apnea
The most obvious clue, snoring, isn’t always a reliable indicator. Some people with sleep apnea don’t snore much at all. Other symptoms can vary but often include:
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Morning headaches or dry mouth
- Feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Mood changes, including irritability or depression
- High blood pressure or worsening heart health
If your partner has noticed pauses in your breathing while you sleep, or if you consistently wake feeling unrefreshed, consider getting an evaluation.
Why It Matters
Untreated sleep apnea can take a serious toll on your health. It’s been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and even increased risk for car accidents due to daytime drowsiness. Fortunately, with proper diagnosis and treatment, these risks can be reduced and your quality of life can improve significantly.
How Midwest ENT Can Help
Dr. Siegel and our team at Midwest ENT in Chicago provide thorough evaluations to determine whether sleep apnea is at the root of your symptoms. Diagnostic tools may include a sleep study, either at home or in a lab setting, to monitor your breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep stages.
If sleep apnea is confirmed, we’ll discuss which treatments are best for your specific situation. Options may include:
- CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy
- Oral appliances that reposition the jaw during sleep
- Lifestyle changes such as weight loss or positional therapy
- Surgical procedures, including the Inspire Sleep Implant device to open the airway or address nasal obstruction
Dr. Siegel will explain each option and help you choose the one that fits your lifestyle and health goals.
Find Better Sleep in Chicago
If you suspect sleep apnea, don’t wait. Early treatment can make a meaningful difference in how you feel every day. Contact Midwest ENT by calling (312) 988-7777 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gordon J. Siegel and start getting restful, restorative sleep.