Eos sleep is home to leading experts in snoring and sleep apnea treatment, offering customized plans for each unique patient and condition. Our practice offers a wide selection of snoring and sleep apnea treatment options, ranging from CPAP to the latest in CPAP alternatives. eos sleep specialists are committed to providing patients with the least invasive treatment options that suit their particular sleep health needs.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes you to stop breathing intermittently when you are sleeping. These episodes are called apneic events and are characterized by snoring, choking, and gasping. It is these same events that lead to poor sleep quality and excessive sleepiness during the day.
What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring followed by gasping.
- Choking.
- Morning headaches.
- Trouble concentrating.
- Irritability and mood swings.
What Are the Different Types of Sleep Apnea?
There are two types of sleep apnea: Obstructive and central. Obstructive sleep apnea happens with the airway collapses during sleep. Some patients may have narrow upper airways, which cause obstructive symptoms while sleeping. Central sleep apnea happens when the brain fails to send signals to the respiratory system. This type of apnea is less frequent and is seen more in patients with other chronic medical conditions or in patients who suffered a traumatic brain injury.
How Is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
In most cases, sleep apnea is diagnosed after patients seek treatment for feeling fatigued during the day, even after eight hours in bed. They may or not have witnessed apneic events. A definitive diagnosis is made after patients undergo a sleep study, either at home or in a sleep lab.
What Is the Treatment for Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea can be treated with a CPAP (Continuous positive airway pressure) or with an oral appliance. A CPAP is an electronic device that provides continuous air pressure to keep the upper airway open during sleep.
An oral appliance treats sleep apnea by gently shifting the lower jaw forward and opening up the airway.
Is Sleep Apnea Curable?
In some cases, yes. If sleep apnea is caused by obesity, losing weight may correct the issue. If there is an obstruction in the airway, such as a low-hanging uvula, having a uvulectomy may alleviate the apneic episodes. In other cases, a CPAP or oral appliance can reduce or completely eliminate sleep apnea symptoms.
For more information about snoring and sleep apnea treatment options, click on the buttons below. Fill out the form on this page or call 212.873.6036 today to learn more about eos sleep services or to book an appointment.