Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder with serious medical consequences.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when the tongue and soft palate collapse onto the back of the throat, blocking air flow into the lungs. Lacking oxygen, the brain awakens the sleeping person to breathe (up to 300 times / night), depriving the person of essential REM sleep and causing a list of problems associated with the chronic lack of sleep.

Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea are:

• Loss of energy
• Forgetfulness
• Morning headaches
• Trouble concentrating
• Anxiety and depression

Untreated, chronic sleep apnea can cause:

• High blood pressure
• Cardiovascular disease
• Memory problems
• Weight gain
• Impotency
• Headaches

Moreover, sleep apnea may be responsible for impaired job performance and motor vehicle accidents. Fortunately, sleep apnea can be diagnosed and treated.

Facts on Sleep Apnea

• An estimated 30 million - or one in eight - Americans snore.
• Some 28 percent of men over the age of 65 suffer from sleep apnea.
• Individuals who snore have a high likelihood of having (or developing) obstructive sleep apnea.
• Approximately 18 million (17%) Americans suffer from sleep apnea.
• Up to 50% of sleep apnea patients have high blood pressure.
• One study shows OSA causes 5x greater risk of heart attack.
• Snoring and mild-moderate apnea is improved and often eliminated in many patients who use oral appliances.
• Each year, sleep disorders add an estimated $15.9 billion to the national healthcare bill.

Do you need to see a doctor about your Sleep Apnea?