If you are concerned that you may have sleep apnea, there are solutions to improve your sleep quality and overall health. At Northern Virginia Sleep Solutions in Alexandria, VA, we offer non-invasive treatments for sleep apnea, snoring and bruxism to help you get the rest you need. We have compiled a few of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) to give you more information on this impactful sleep disorder.
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When the airway is blocked while you are sleeping, it can cause snoring, gasping and a stoppage of breathing. Those with obstructive sleep apnea have the top of the airway covered by the soft palate tissues in the back of the mouth and throat. Breathing can stop hundreds of times per night, impacting oxygen levels and sleep quality.
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Those with obstructive sleep apnea usually experience symptoms affecting their health and energy levels. Some of the common symptoms of OSA include:
- Snoring
- Gasping or snorting while sleeping
- Headaches in the morning
- Difficulty concentrating (brain fog)
- Increased blood pressure
- Fatigue
If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek a diagnosis with a sleep study to determine if you have sleep apnea.
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Genetics, age and gender can affect your risk for OSA. Older adults are more prone to OSA, but it can occur at any age. Family history and being born male can increase your risk. Those who are overweight or have certain health conditions may also be at higher risk.
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Any OSA treatment aims to open the airway and allow for continuous breathing while sleeping. CPAP machines are one of the most prescribed treatments for moderate to severe OSA, but these devices are intrusive, and many patients are unwilling to use this treatment. Other non-invasive treatments include oral appliance therapy and laser treatments, which can be effective for mild to moderate OSA.
If you want to learn more about sleep apnea and alternative treatments to CPAP, come see us at Northern Virginia Sleep Solutions. Call our office in Alexandria, VA, to schedule your OSA consultation.
