Do I Have Sleep Apnea?

If you have any of these symptoms:

• Snoring

• Gagging during the night

• Morning headaches

• Daytime sleepiness

You should tell your physician immediately and tell them about your symptoms and concerns. Obstructive sleep apnea can be very dangerous.  It can cause heart attacks, strokes, diabetes complications, depression and erectile dysfunction.

If you have daytime sleepiness, you may fall asleep on the job or be the cause of a major motor vehicle accident while falling asleep at the wheel.

Are you a bus driver?  A truck driver?  An airline pilot?  Do you drive carpools, either adult or with your children or grandchildren?

YES!  The side effects can be very dangerous and you must investigate the cause of your symptoms.

How Can My Sleep Apnea Be Managed?

The most common treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP machine.  You must wear a mask, attached to the hose and unit that pushes air, to bed every night. Many people for whom this has been prescribed refuse to use or do not tolerate it.

Some people opt for surgery which may or may not be successful.

Another option is an oral appliance.  This is often used by those who cannot tolerate a CPAP or refuse to use it.  If you qualify for this and use it nightly, it has a high success rate.  The oral appliance has a high rate of acceptance among patients.  It is comfortable and travels easily.  It is approved by Medicare.  It is custom made for you by a dentist who treats people with obstructive sleep apnea.