Trying to understand exactly what obstructive sleep apnea is can be somewhat confusing. It is not just as simple as struggling to breathe now and again when sleeping. It is a serious medical condition, and far more common than most people realize. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of sleep apnea, and is usually evident in people who snore during sleep. Here is what you should know about this condition.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

When your throat randomly closes or collapses during sleep, and it becomes difficult to breathe, you are likely suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. Most people who have this happen also exhibit snoring whenever they try to sleep. While it can affect anyone at any age, it tends to affect overweight individuals, and those who are middle aged or older. Obstructive sleep apnea typically requires a sleep study to diagnose, and then treatment follows after a diagnosis is complete. Most times, treatment will involve some type of a device that will help hold the throat open during all phases of sleep.

Risks of Undiagnosed Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Because obstructive sleep apnea stops your breathing randomly throughout the night, it can cause you to struggle in all aspects of life when you are awake. Not only is your sleep less effective, but you are also risking the effects of sleep deprivation taking over your life. If your sleep apnea is severe and you stop breathing a lot during each of your sleep cycles, you could end up stopping at one point, and not be able to start breathing again. This medical condition needs to be taken very seriously.

If you think you may have obstructive sleep apnea, you should contact your primary care physician immediately and schedule an appointment. He or she is the only one who can get the process started to get you diagnosed. This process could save your life if your condition is on the serious side, or at the very least offer you better sleep at night, and more wakeful experiences during the day.

Contact Dr. Levy today if you believe you are suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, and let a professional help get you properly diagnosed.

12345