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Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Symptoms and Treatments

If you snore loudly, or are having difficulty breathing while you sleep, you may be experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea. This sleep disorder consists of your breathing being interrupted while you sleep, and is considered a serious health condition. Because your body and brain need a certain amount of oxygen, it is important to understand sleep apnea symptoms, classifications and treatments.

If you are experiencing any sleep apnea symptoms, or would like to learn more about treatments for sleep apnea in Lansing, MI, please call our office at 517-213-4505 today to schedule your visit with Dr. Kristina Palmer!

Types of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) - This is the most common form of sleep apnea. It is caused by the airway being blocked, usually when the soft tissue in the back of your throat collapses during the time that you are asleep.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) - This form of sleep apnea occurs when the brain is unable to signal the muscles to act in the way that they need to for you to breathe. Instability in the respiratory control center may be to blame.

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea

There are a few known reasons for sleep apnea, with most of them being related to your physical health. If you notice any of these signs, please contact our practice.

Family History of Sleep Apnea

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Large Tonsils or Tongue, Small Jaw

Nasal Obstructions

Large Neck Circumference

Male And/Or Over 40

Signs of Sleep Apnea

Determining that sleep apnea is present is the first step in overcoming it. The following conditions may indicate that you are experiencing sleep apnea:

Snoring
Choking sounds (as if you are restarting your breathing pattern)
Headaches upon waking up
Falling asleep easily during the day
Waking up short of breath at night
Extreme drowsiness
Insomnia or other difficulty sleeping

"Dr. Palmer, the hygienists, and receptionists are wonderful! I've been a patient for almost 10 years now and have/would recommend to friends and family."
-Carmen P.

Technology and Treatments

Treatments for sleep apnea range depending on each patient’s case. Basic treatments, such as losing weight, smoking cessation or sleeping on your side, may help subdue sleep apnea. If none of these treatments work, oral devices can be used to position your lower jaw in a way that can prevent your throat from being blocked.

At our practice, we are able to use a few tools to help us determine if you have sleep apnea, such as:

Rhinometer - A rhinometer is a measurement tool that allows for us to determine the shape and size of your nasal airway. This shows us where, and how severe, the obstruction is. A small plastic tube is briefly inserted into your nasal opening while you keep your mouth passageway closed.
Pharyngometer - A pharyngometer is a tool that determines your airway size and stability. A small tube is place inside of your mouth while you close off your nasal passageway and breathe into the tube.

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