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Information about SLEEP |
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What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea
(OSA)?
OSA is a
recurring interruption of breathing during sleep because of
obstruction of the upper
airway and also results in
hypoxemia as well as chronic
lethargy during the day. OSA was
originally
thought to occur in obese middle-aged
and elderly men especially, however
current
research
and clinical experience proves
otherwise.
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Common Symptoms
Snoring
Pauses in breathing during sleep
Excessive day time sleepiness / chronic
lethargy
Decreased productively (at work and socially)
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Why is Sleep Apnea
important?
No one has ever died from Sleep Apnea, however, patients
may die of the consequences of it.
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Ex: Patients with untreated Sleep Apnea are at higher risk
for cardiovascular consequences,
such as heart attacks, strokes, and increased blood
pressure.
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Ex: Patients with untreated Sleep Apnea often experience
excessive day time sleepiness,
leading to increased incidences of motor vehicle accidents, which could
result in death.
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Ex: Reggie White, the NFL superstar, recently passed
away
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Treatment Options
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CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
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The piece of durable medical equipment is a breathing
device worn at night that forces a continuous
positive airway pressure (CPAP) down the airways and with
most patients, eliminates nearly all
Sleep Apnea as well as snoring. While some patients may have issues
cosmedically or with
claustraphobia, it
is important to choose a treatment that is successful, beneficial
and cost effective.
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Surgery
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There are some patients who would benefit from a surgical
procedure. Consult your physician for
the different types of surgery and whether or not one of
those procedures may be right for you.
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OAT (Oral Appliance Therapy)
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This method of treatment requires your dentist to make an
oral appliance that may be worn during
sleep. OATs are for patients with Sleep Apnea with the
mild to moderate range, and are not
covered by all insurance companies. Check with your
insurance company to see if you have
coverage.