If you answered yes, you may be at risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common form of a sleep breathing disorder. You will want to talk with your
doctor to discuss treatment, as it is a serious sleep disorder resulting from interruptions in your breathing throughout the night. Risks of Obstructive Sleep
Apnea OSA puts your overall health at risk as it decreases the flow of oxygen to your organs. This occurs when your throat muscles relax, blocking part or all of
your upper airway while you sleep. These muscles affect the following oral structures: Soft palate: The back of the roof of your mouth Uvula: The teardrop-
shaped soft tissue hanging down the back of your throat Tonsils: Soft tissue on both sides of your throat that help fight off infection Tongue: A muscular organ
in the mouth that helps you chew and swallow When these muscles relax, the chest muscles and diaphragm need to work harder to open up the airway so
your lungs can get enough air. Your breathing will become shallow, and you could stop breathing for 10 seconds or longer. Insufficient oxygen levels causes
buildup of carbon dioxide in your body. When you begin to breathe, you might choke, gasp, or snort. This can occur 5 to 30 times in an hour during your sleep.
As this can disrupt restful sleep phases, you will be unaware it is even happening to you unless you have a partner who notices. Other Symptoms of OSA May
Include: Forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating Moody or depressed Night sweats Restless sleep Diminished libido Sleeping with your mouth open
Frequent trips to the restroom High blood pressure or gastroesophageal reflux disease Diagnosis and Treatment Treating OSA requires proper diagnosis by a
Sleep Physician, this can involve spending a night in a sleep lab or having a home sleep test. During the test, your blood oxygen levels, heart rhythm and rate,
body position, movement of your arms and legs, the time spent in the different stages of sleep, and measuring your breathing and airflow will all be
monitored. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, there are treatments to help restore your sleep quality. What You Can Do Depending on the severity of your
symptoms, there are some things you can do on your own. Lose weight; losing 10% of your weight can relieve symptoms. Avoid taking sleeping pills or drinking
alcohol before bedtime to minimize the chance of causing the throat muscles to relax. Try sleeping on your side instead of your back. Use nasal sprays for
nasal congestion and sinus issues. What We May Recommend Use of a CPAP machine allows constant airflow while keeping your upper airway open. Wear an
oral appliance during sleep, such as an oral mandibular advancement device. It moves your lower jaw forward to keep your airway open which keeps your
tongue from blocking your throat. Having surgery to remove excess tissue that is blocking airflow into your throat and nose (from swollen tonsils, adenoids or
a deviated septum). Diagnosing and treating sleep apnea is crucial for your overall health and quality of life. You don’t have to live with these uncomfortable
and life-threatening symptoms! Our sleep specialists are here to help you find the sleep solutions you need.
OUR ADDRESS
2001 E Lohman Ave Ste 122
Las Cruces, NM 88001
OFFICE HOURS
Monday – Friday 8:00 – 5:00
Holiday Hours Vary
