OSA and Dental Sleep Medicine
If you have a partner who wakes up gasping for breath it’s time to schedule an appointment with Sturm & Associates. Gasping for breath could mean OSA.
Waking up as many as 30 times an hour gasping for breath is a sure sign of obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, when left untreated, leads to other issues, including heart attack, stroke and even death.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Dr. Judy Sturm, a licensed dental sleep medicine doctor, explains that obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that affects billions of people all over the globe.
This potentially deadly disorder causes the back of the throat to close. So much so that the person affected cannot breathe.
Your sleep medicine specialist in Toronto explains that while there is no one cause for obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, there are some who are in a higher risk category than others.
OSA Risks
- Obesity
- Large Neck Size
- Family History
- Certain Medications
- Adenoids and Tonsils
- Heavy Smokers
- Heavy Drinkers
- Post Menopause
- Being Male
- Being over 55
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Signs
- Loud Snoring
- Waking Gasping for Breath
- Mood Swings
- Low Sex Drive
- Dry Mouth
- Morning Headaches
- Daytime Sleepiness
- Sore Throat upon Waking
Diagnosing Obstructive Sleep Apnea
In the past, you would have to see a sleep specialist in Yorkville to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea, but not anymore.
Thanks to Sturm & Associates, you can schedule an appointment for your partner, or yourself, if you believe either of you is affected by obstructive sleep apnea.
Treating OSA
The most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is CPAP Therapy. If you follow the Sturm & Associates Blog you will recall that a CPAP machine consists of a hose connected to a facemask that is connected to a machine.
While CPAP therapy has gotten better over the years, it is still uncomfortable and cumbersome. That means some would rather deal with the condition than continue with the therapy. Thankfully it is not the only form of treatment.
Oral Appliance Therapy for OSA
If you have been diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA, either by Dr. Sturm or another sleep medicine specialist in Toronto, your options will be discussed before making a decision on treatment. Some of those options could include oral appliance therapy with splints and mouth guards, weight loss and meditation.
Sleep Medicine in Toronto
Waking up gasping for breath is serious and should not be ignored. Call or send a direct message and schedule an appointment with Sturm & Associates today.
