Sleep apnea is a condition that affects how you breathe when sleeping. During sleep, normal breathing can be interrupted for 10 seconds or more hundreds of times during a single night. Untreated sleep apnea prevents you from getting enough deep, restorative sleep. Without enough deep sleep you may be sleepy, lack mental sharpness and be less productive. Long term health effects can be serious, including weight gain, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
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Loud, chronic snoring |
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Insomnia |
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Breathing pauses for long periods |
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Waking up often at night |
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Forgetfulness, irritability, depression |
Home Treatments for Light Sleep Apnea
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Avoid sleeping on your back, because your tongue is more likely to block your airway |
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Elevate your head using extra pillows or a body wedge |
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Open your nasal passage via breathing strips, saline nasal flush, or a nasal dilator |
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Lose weight |
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Exercise |
Treatments for Moderate to Severe Sleep Apnea
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Talk to a doctor trained in sleep apnea |
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Use supplemental oxygen while sleeping |
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Use a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure) machine |
If you think you may have sleep apnea, please
give us a call at (415) 468-3756. We can help identify and diagnose the severity of the sleep apnea and discuss the best treatment options for your unique situation.
