Sleep Apnea

Obstructive and Central Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a serious disorder that causes one to essentially stop breathing while he/she sleeps. There are two types of sleep apnea, obstructive (which is more common) and central.

Obstructive sleep apnea is usually caused by the collapse of soft tissue in the back of the throat and blockage of an airway during sleep. Central sleep apnea is not due to blockage, but the brain is actually failing to tell your muscles to breathe.

It is hard to know for sure if you have sleep apnea since you are asleep when the problem occurs, but here are some symptoms to keep in mind such as:
– Waking up frequently or insomnia
– Morning headaches
– Daytime sleepiness
– Mood changes and/or forgetfulness
– Waking up gasping or choking for air

If left untreated, sleep apnea has been known to lead to lower academic success in children, cause heart attacks or heart failure, hypertension, and even strokes.
At Miya and Torchinsky ENT we will monitor your sleep with a comprehensive polysomnogram to record physical activity while you sleep. A good night’s sleep in an important part of your health to feel good throughout the day, and we are here to help!