Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea is a disorder which can negatively impact a patient's health in unforeseen ways. It is chronic and can present through a variety of symptoms. Many times, patients are completely unaware they are even suffering from sleep apnea because the symptoms are so minor. Other patients are not quite so lucky and wake up gasping for breath or feeling like they are smothered. Patients can rest easy. There are various treatment protocols available to treat this disorder.Sleep apnea is considered a very serious disorder which should be addressed immediately. Please come to see us at Cooley Smiles if you suspect you may have sleep apnea. We can assess your situation to determine if you are suffering from sleep apnea and recommend proper treatment. Types of Sleep ApneaSleep apnea occurs far more frequently than most people realize. It is a sleep disorder which periodically disrupts the breathing patterns of the patient as they sleep. It can be caused by either a physical abnormality or from improper brain signals failing to trigger the muscles necessary for breathing. When there is a physical abnormality or obstruction which is a hindrance to normal airflow and normal breathing it is called obstructive sleep apnea. This is the most common type and is known as OSA. The second kind of sleep apnea is known as central sleep apnea or CSA. This type of sleep apnea is the result of the brain failing to send the proper signals to the muscles required for breathing while the patient sleeps. The third type of sleep apnea is known as complex sleep apnea syndrome, or CSAS, and occurs when the patient is suffering from both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. SymptomsThere may be multiple symptoms manifesting themselves at the same time when patients suffer from sleep apnea. They might have loud snoring and wake up numerous times during the sleep cycle. They might awaken with a dry mouth, a headache, or earache. With irregular sleeping habits, those suffering from sleep apnea can be on edge, tired, and unable to focus for long periods of time. RisksSleep apnea can strike anyone at any age, even children. Some patients never show outward signs of sleep apnea but still suffer from the disorder. There are a few factors like genetics which can increase the likelihood of developing the disorder. Those who have abnormally large necks, use tobacco products, drink alcohol, have nasal congestion, heart disorders, or stroke are all at increased odds of having sleep apnea. What are the Treatments?Sleep apnea can lead to more serious conditions for the patient if not properly treated. The treatments are dependent upon the nature of the sleep apnea condition. The goal of any sleep apnea treatment is to restore normal sleeping patterns to relieve fatigue and the risk of certain cardiovascular conditions such as stroke. Those patients who want to know more about sleep apnea and its treatments should come to see us at Cooley Smiles. We can also be reached by calling (425) 650-3560 to get a consultation or an appointment scheduled. |
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(425) 650-3560 kirkland@cooleysmiles.com LOCATION 12911 120th Ave NE E10 Kirkland, WA 98034-3022 |
