Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a breathing disorder, occurring while you sleep, due to the narrowing or blocking of your airway.  When your brain detects your blocked airway, and a lack of oxygen, it prompts a momentary arousal for you to draw breath.  Many who suffer from OSA have no memory of these episodes occurring while they sleep, and may be completely unaware of their condition if they sleep alone. 

OSA is a serious medical condition that can impact the quality of your life.  Consider the following:

-- Regular snorers have a 33% increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
-- Those who suffer from OSA are four times more likely to have a heart attack.
-- 40-80% of stroke sufferers also suffer from OSA.

What are the symptoms of OSA?

Ask yourself these questions if you think you might be suffering from OSA:

-- Do you and your partner sleep in separate rooms due to loud snoring?
-- Do you dose off unintentionally during the day?
-- Do you often wake up feeling tired or having a headache?
-- Do you have problems concentrating for long periods of time?

If you feel you may be suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea, we usually recommend a referral to a sleep specialist to get the diagnostic process started.  There are treatment options that are available by your medical doctor and by our office, depending on the severity of the OSA and patient preference.  Medical doctors often treat OSA with the use of a CPAP device which is worn while sleeping, and provides a positive air pressure into your airway that keeps it open.  Another alternative that is available through our office is the SomnoMed MAS (Mandibular Advancement Splint).  This appliance treats snoring and mild to moderate OSA by moving the lower jaw forward slightly.  This forward movement tightens the soft tissue and muscles of the upper airway while you sleep.  Another benefit of the SomnoMed MAS is that it also protects you from the harmful effects of clenching and grinding at night.

If you currently have OSA or problems with snoring we would be happy to schedule a consultation to discuss your options.  Soon you could be experiencing a much better night’s sleep and have more stamina and energy!


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