Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by periodic episodes of non-breathing (apnea) during sleep. These disruptions of sleep can result is daytime sleepiness and fatigue. Obstructive sleep apnea can also result in an increased risk of heart disease, hypertension, stroke, obesity and in some instances death. Sleep induced muscle relaxation, which in turn allows pharyngeal (throat) structures to vibrate (snoring) If taken to an extreme, the airway gets sucked shut, similar to what happens when sucking hard on a paper straw. Breathing stops (apnea), however the brain detects a problem, and triggers an arousal from sleep. Although a person may be unaware that they are experiencing frequent apneic events, they may wake up feeling tired and worn out. The most common symptoms are snoring, witnessed apneas (people observing your non-breathing during sleep), choking/gasping episodes during sleep, and daytime sleepiness despite adequate sleep time. Obesity and high blood pressure are frequently seen in patients with sleep apnea but not necessarily all the time. If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, then it is recommended that you ask your physician for a sleep study.

Narcolepsy: Narcolepsy is a condition in which numerous undesired episodes of sleep occur during the day. This can result in a person finding him or herself in life threatening circumstances, as these daytime sleep attacks can occur during potentially dangerous activities such as driving. Narcolepsy is treated with medications, a scheduled nap pattern, and good sleep hygiene.

Insomnia: Insomnia is a condition in which a person has difficulty initiating sleep, sleeps only a short amount of time, or frequently awakens from sleep. This sleep disorder can be the result of stress, emotional difficulties, environmental problems, or from disruptions in a person’s normal sleep pattern. Insomnia is treated with better sleep hygiene and medications.

Periodic Limb Movements During Sleep (PLMS) : PLMS is a disorder in which repetitive leg jerks are observed. These movements can result in complete awakenings. PLMS is often found in people with decreased blood flow to the legs. PLMS is treated with medications.