Snoring causes health problems and stress in relationships for over 65 million Americans. The snorer is tired and unable to perform to their full potential, while their loved ones suffer from the constant noise and sleeplessness.
What most people are not aware of, is that snoring is a symptom of a more serious sleep disorder.
As many as 32% of snorers experience temporary blockage of the airway during sleep and can actually stop breathing. This is called Obstructive Sleep Apnea, or OSA.
If this is left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, coronary heart disease, and stroke.
Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Sleep Apnea
Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) refers to a number of conditions that impair a person’s ability to get enough oxygen during their sleep. Symptoms of SDB include fatigue, excessive daytime sleepiness, snoring and depression. Long-term SDB increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and heart rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation.
When SDB exists, it’s vital to remedy this situation as soon as possible because it can seriously damage the quality of a person’s life. While there are a few different causes for SDB, by far the most common one is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
OSA is characterized by repeated periods of complete or partial upper airway obstruction that results in reduced oxygen in the blood and frequent arousal from sleep, often accompanied by snoring and gasping for air.
Out of concern for her patients with SDB and OSA, Dr. Vanila has received extensive training on treating this problem. A careful examination and medical history will enable her to determine if OSA treatment can improve both your sleep and the quality of your health and life.
If you have been told you snore, gasp or partly wake up during your sleep, please consult with Dr. Vanila to get the right care to make your sleep and breathing peaceful again.