Sleep apnea shouldn’t be accepted as a normal way of life.,Sleep apnea is a common condition and chronic disorder affecting millions, where while sleeping, sleep apnea patients repeatedly stop breathing during the night. Each pause in breathing is called “apnea” – which means “no breath”. This pause typically lasts 10 seconds or longer and happens regularly throughout the night. ,Some experience 5 to 30 apnea episodes in one hour. When breathing is irregular, carbon dioxide builds up in the bloodstream, triggering the brain to wake the sleeping person and resume breathing.,When someone with obstructive sleep apnea (or OSA) sleeps, gravity and muscle relaxation allows the tongue and surrounding soft tissue to fall back into the throat area. This collapses the airway and obstructs the airflow. This condition is further complicated by excessive weight, loss of muscle tone due to aging or excessive tissue in the upper airway. Additionally, sleeping on your back or alcohol use may increase apnea events.,Sleep apnea consequences can be significant. When left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to several physical issues and diseases, as well as major health complications. (1) Other consequences for sleep apnea are:,The good news is sleep apnea is a treatable condition and solutions exist which have helped patients around the world rest easier, feel better during the day, and reduce their risk of health complications. ,Outside of weight loss where appropriate, two primary options exist for the treatment of sleep apnea:,Getting started for sleep apnea is easier than ever. Beginning treatment should look something like:,1. Talk to your physician about your symptoms. If you don’t have a sleep physician, ask your primary care physician for a sleep physician referral.,2. Your sleep physician will order a sleep study, and provide you with the diagnosis afterwards.,3. If diagnosed with mild-moderate sleep apnea, COAT is an option for you. A dentist will fit you with your device. Ask your dentist about any of our SomnoDent devices and discuss the sleep physician’s diagnosis.,If you or your loved one struggles with sleep apnea, use this information to obtain relief. Let us know how we can help – contact a SomnoMed customer service representative at 888-447-6673.
