Millions of people suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
If you are one of them, and if left untreated, this sleep disorder can have a major negative impact on your health and quality of life.
Has your bed partner told you that your snore? Do you awaken gasping for air in the middle of the night? Think you sleep well, but are still feel tired throughout the day?
Loud snoring, repeated gasping during sleep, daytime sleepiness, and fatigue may be symptoms of sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that occurs when your throat muscles relax and collapse during exhalation. As a result, your airway becomes obstructed– blocking normal inhalation. When this happens, your brain signals your body to wake up.
These involuntary ‘apnea events’ cause you to stop breathing many times every hour. Therefore, you are robbed of restful sleep. In addition, your blood oxygen level is significantly lowered.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea can lead to serious problems like excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue, impaired cognitive function, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes.
Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
If you experience one or more of these symptoms listed below, you may suffer from obstructive sleep apnea.
Loud snoring
Abrupt awakening accompanied by gasping or choking
Periods of stopped breathing during sleep
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
Nighttime sweating
Difficulty concentrating during the day
Mood changes such as depression or irritability
High blood pressure
Decreased libido