Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common form of sleep-related breathing disorder. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax during sleep, causing the soft tissues to collapse and block the airway. This blockage leads to a series of events: breathing stops, oxygen levels fall, and the brain sends a signal to briefly wake the body up to take a breath. As a Fellow of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, Dr. Sudikoff has extensive training in neuromuscular dentistry, providing a deep understanding of the oral and facial structures that contribute to OSA.
The Impact of OSA on Your Body
This constant cycle of waking and falling back asleep, often unnoticed, prevents your body from reaching the deep sleep stages essential for recovery. The lack of oxygen also triggers your body’s “fight or flight” response, causing spikes in blood pressure and heart rate. Over time, this chronic stress can lead to serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and stroke.
Common Symptoms of OSA
Be aware of these common signs that may indicate the presence of OSA:
● Excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue
● Loud, persistent snoring
● Witnessed pauses in breathing, gasping, or choking sounds during sleep
● Morning headaches or a dry/sore throat upon waking
● Irritability, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems
● Frequent nighttime urination
If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it’s crucial to seek a professional diagnosis.
Common FAQs About OSA
What is the difference between OSA and Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)?
OSA is caused by a physical blockage in the airway. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) is less common and occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. While we specialize in treating OSA, we can help assess and refer patients for other forms of sleep apnea as well.
Can losing weight cure my sleep apnea?
For many people, significant weight loss can reduce the severity of their sleep apnea and may even eliminate it, as excess weight often contributes to the collapsing of throat tissue. However, it is not a guaranteed cure, and a physician’s oversight is necessary to monitor progress.
Is an oral appliance effective for OSA?
Yes, oral appliance therapy is a clinically proven, FDA-approved treatment for mild-to-moderate OSA. In many cases, it provides the same benefits as CPAP without the noise, bulkiness, or inconvenience.