What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing throughout the sleep cycle.

  • Weak muscles in the airway, a large tongue, obesity, and other factors may cause airway tissue to collapse and obstruct breathing.
  • These interruptions, called apneas, are caused by the collapse of soft tissue in the airway, which prevents oxygen from reaching the lungs.
  • Sleep apnea disrupts the sleep cycle and can dramatically impact energy, mental performance, and long term health. In some cases, if left untreated, sleep apnea can be fatal.
  • A sleep apnea test can help you determine whether you have sleep apnea. Note that a referral from a medical doctor is required prior to completing the sleep test.

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    Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

    Sleep apnea affects 5-10% of adults in the United States, though a majority of sufferers go undiagnosed. Potentially dangerous symptoms, such as snoring, are often overlooked.

    Untreated sleep apnea is associated with a number of health risks, so it’s important to consult a sleep specialist if you experience the following signs and symptoms:
    Sleep apnea symptoms


    How is OSA diagnosed?

    If you suspect, you have OSA speak to your doctor. Your doctor can refer you for a sleep evaluation or sleep apnea test. Breathing and the amount of oxygen in your blood are measured during the study. The sleep evaluation may occur in a sleep center or at your home.

    Sleep Center – This type of sleep study is usually performed in a public hospital sleep laboratory or a private sleep lab. Specially trained technicians use highly sensitive equipment to monitor you as you sleep.
    Home Study – This type of sleep study can be conducted in the comfort of your home. Trained technicians educate you on using equipment at home.

    Results from the study are interpreted by board certified sleep physicians who will make recommendations for treatment.


    Risks from Untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

    Sleep apnea can have serious short and long term health risks if left untreated, including:


    → High blood pressure

    → Low blood oxygen levels

    → Irregular heartbeat

    → Heart disease

    → Heart attack

    → Stroke

    → Type 2 Diabetes

    → Memory loss

    → Depression

    → Anxiety

    → Snoring

    → Daytime sleepiness & fatigue

    → Decreased sexual desire

    → Driving and work-related accidents

    ASK YOUR PHYSICIAN OR SLEEP DOCTOR TO REFER YOU TO INSPIRE SLEEP, TO START YOUR JOURNEY TO A BETTER NIGHTS SLEEP!

    Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

    What is CPAP therapy?

    There are several types of sleep therapy machines, but a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine is the most common. A CPAP machine sends a constant flow of airway pressure to your throat to ensure that your airway stays open during sleep, effectively treating the spontaneous pauses in breath associated with sleep apnea.

    Treating your sleep apnea will positively impact your life by increasing your energy, alertness and overall happiness. Begin a healthier, happier life with sleep therapy. A constant flow of airway pressure to your throat ensures that your airway stays open during sleep.

    LIFESTYLE CHANGES OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA (OSA) SUFFERERS MAY ALSO BENEFIT FROM:

    → Exercise

    → Diet

    → Quitting smoking

    → Avoiding alcohol and sedatives

    → Sleep hygiene

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