Three out of every four Americans snore or suffer from some other form of sleep disorder. Depression, heart disease, fatigue, high blood pressure and weight gain are common effects. For the partner that lives with the snoring the lack of sleep is almost equally dangerous to their health.

Most people don’t realize that loud snoring can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of sleep-disordered breathing. While sleeping these patients stop breathing – often hundreds of times each night. Breathing stops because the muscles of the airway relax during sleep, allowing the airway to collapse and stopping breath from passing through. Typically, the snorer stops breathing and then gasps, partially wakes, and begins breathing again. They usually don’t remember any of this upon waking.

Most people who get diagnosed have been urged to get treatment by their long-suffering bed partner.

The standard treatment for OSA is CPAP treatment. However over half of patients diagnosed are unable to tolerate sleeping with the masks, hoses and discomfort. Another extremely effective treatment for OSA is oral appliance therapy. Oral appliances are fabricated by a specially trained dentist and these devices are designed to keep the airway open during sleep.

If you or your partner is a heavy snorer and expresses frustration about feeling constantly tired and sleepy, sleep apnea may be the cause.

In the Columbus area, please contact Dr. Mark Levy at 614-476-6696 today to schedule your obstructive sleep apnea consultation. You deserve a better night’s sleep.