Find the treatment you need to finally experience relief from your sleep apnea symptoms.
Sleep is refreshing, healing and something that everyone needs. Unfortunately, despite our need to get proper sleep, millions of Americans don’t get the restorative sleep they require each night. While it’s natural to experience restless sleep every once in a while if you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea it’s important that you turn to our Columbia, SC, sleep doctors Dr. Richard Bogan and Dr. Laura Herpel for a consultation.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes someone to stop breathing throughout the night, which reduces the flow of oxygen to the brain. These pauses in breathing can occur up to hundreds of times in just a single night. When tissue in the back of the throat collapses this can lead to airway obstructions and blockages associated with sleep apnea.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
The classic sign of sleep apnea is loud, chronic snoring. If you or your partner snores loudly every night this could be an indicator of sleep apnea. Other symptoms and signs of sleep apnea include,
- Restless sleep
- Insomnia
- Excessive daytime fatigue
- Morning headaches
- A decline in mental performance
- Brain fog
- Irritability and mood swings
What happens if sleep apnea isn’t treated?
It’s important that if you suspect that you might have sleep apnea that you turn to our Columbia, SC, sleep specialist for a proper diagnosis. Not treating sleep apnea can lead to some serious health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke, so the sooner you are treated for sleep apnea the better.
What are some ways to treat sleep apnea?
The standard treatment option for sleep apnea is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device that delivers pressurized air into the airways through a facemask to prevent obstructions. This device is worn while the patient is asleep and can provide immediate relief after just one night of use. In order to properly manage your symptoms, you will need to use CPAP every night.
Lifestyle changes can also improve symptoms of sleep apnea. These changes include,
- Quitting smoking
- Avoiding alcohol
- Losing excess weight
Furthermore, those with mild to moderate sleep apnea may be able to use a simple dental appliance that fits over the teeth to reposition the jaws and prevent airway obstructions. Nerve stimulation therapy and surgery are also possible treatment options depending on the type and severity of your sleep apnea.
Whether you’re noticing sleep problems or you have just been diagnosed with sleep apnea, the medical team at Bogan Sleep Consultants in Columbia, SC, can diagnose and treat all of your sleep problems. Schedule an appointment with us today.
