Sleep, a fundamental biological process, is vital to your overall well-being. Sleep apnea refers to a specific sleep disorder characterized by repetitive and persistent breathing interruptions, leading to patchy or fragmented sleep patterns. If you or someone you love in and around Bradenton and Sarasota, FL, experiences erratic and restless sleep, contact Dr. Jeremy McConnell at Florida Sleep Specialists for help in the diagnosis and management of sleep apnea and other sleep issues.
Exploring Sleep Apnea: Symptoms
Breathing disruptions during sleep (known as apneas) result from a narrowing/blockage in one’s airway. These interruptions in breath can last for a few seconds to minutes. However, disrupted breathing causes blood oxygen levels to decrease, sending a signal to the brain to awaken you so you can begin to breathe normally again – multiple times each night.
While sleep apnea symptoms may vary, insomnia is the classic characteristic. Other symptoms include –
- Persistent, disruptive snoring.
- Frequent wakeups.
- Gasping for air or choking episodes.
- Night restlessness.
- Daytime drowsiness or fatigue.
- Challenges with concentration or memory.
- Moodiness and irritability.
- Waking up with headaches, dry mouth, or a sore throat.
If left undiagnosed and untreated, sleep apnea can lead to significant health issues. It reduces your quality of life by causing insomnia, cognitive impairment, and daytime fatigue. And unmanaged sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, like heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and more.
However, a timely diagnosis and a personalized sleep apnea treatment plan can help improve sleep and your overall health.
Types of Sleep Apnea
There are three types of sleep apnea -
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is recognized as the most common type. It occurs when the throat muscles relax, and the airway restricts or partially closes.
Central Sleep Apnea
Central sleep apnea refers to a less common type of apnea that occurs when communication between the brain and the respiratory muscles breaks down.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome - Mixed Sleep Apnea
Refers to a combination of both types of apnea noted above.
Exploring Sleep Apnea: Treatment Options
Treating sleep apnea is managed by a tailored approach to meet each unique need. However, common treatment options include –
- Lifestyle changes, i.e., loss of excess weight, etc. Dr. McConnell is a board-certified obesity specialist.
- Using a CPAP device (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine) during sleep.
- Dental appliances that realign an out-of-position jaw.
Surgery may be necessary in rare instances to correct anatomical issues causing the breathing issue.
Contact a Leading Sleep Specialist in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL
If you suspect you or someone you know has sleep apnea, contact Dr. McConnell or a staff member at Florida Sleep Specialists by calling 941-792-8383 (Bradenton), 941-827-0701 (Sarasota), or contacting us online.