Sleep Apnea

Snoring

Snoring (loud breathing during sleep) is very common and can be quite disturbing - not only for those who suffer from it, but also for those around them. Reasons for snoring can range from lifestyle habits to anatomy and physiology. Lifestyle habits that can cause or exacerbate snoring are alcohol consumption, sleeping habits (position), use of medications, and many others. Physiological causes include age and weight, allergies, enlarged adenoids or tonsils, deviated septum, etc. Although snoring as such is not a life threatening condition, it can, and often does, significantly affect a person's life. It can cause sleepiness and fatigue, morning headaches, elevated blood pressure and eventually can lead to other serious diseases. A solution to snoring may lie in a simple lifestyle change, or may require a more complex intervention such as wearing an appliance or undergoing surgery.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious and potentially dangerous sleep disorder that is sometimes associated with snoring. Professional help should be sought immediately if snoring is accompanied by irregular breathing or pauses in breathing. If not properly diagnosed and treated, sleep apnea can lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even to sudden death. If you or someone you know experiences breathing difficulties or irregularities during sleep, please contact us as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation and treatment recommendations. Sleep apnea can be fatal.