Frequently Asked Questions: Sleep Apnea

1. What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is defined as the cessation of breathing during sleep.

Apnea specialists generally agree that there are three different types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and mixed. Of these three, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common; central sleep apnea is rare; mixed sleep apnea is a combination of the previous two with treatment being the same as OSA.

2. What are the symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

Answer: Headaches upon awakening, Loud snoring, Excessive daytime sleepiness, Frequent illnesses, Difficulty breathing through nose, Memory problems, Hoarseness in the morning, Depression, Falling asleep while driving, Irritability, Sleep talking/walking, Weight gain, Night sweats, Headaches upon awakening, Loud snoring, Excessive daytime sleepiness, Frequent illnesses, Difficulty breathing through nose, Memory problems, Hoarseness in the morning, Depression, Falling asleep while driving, Irritability, Sleep talking/walking, Weight gain, Night sweats

3. How is Sleep Apnea treated?

Answer: Once diagnosed, Sleep Apnea is often managed through the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. Dental appliances that reposition the lower jaw and the tongue have been helpful, too.