Education Center

WHAT IS SLEEP APNEA?

Sleep Apnea Patient Education Video – The Silencer

Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a serious, common, and treatable disorder that affects men, women and children.  Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs due to tissue relaxation that blocks the airway while we sleep.

Snoring

Snoring can be thought of as very mild sleep apnea and occurs due to vibration of relaxed (floppy) tissues in the airway.  Snoring is often associated with sleep apnea and is a good indicator that screening is necessary.

Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:

  • Loud Snoring
  • Choking or Gasping During Sleep
  • Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
  • Weight Gain
  • Decreased Energy and Mood

Sleep Apnea is associated with long term health and safety concerns including:

  • Heart Attack and Stroke
  • Diabetes
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Weight Gain
  • Mood Disorders: Anxiety and Depression
  • Memory and Concentration Issues
  • Car and Work Related Accidents
  • Decreased Sex Drive

Sleep Apnea is easily treated, and once treated most health and safety risks come back to normal levels.