Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a reduction or even cessation in airflow during sleep. Heavy snoring often gives way to obstruction of the airway and a stoppage of breath. Blood oxygen levels decrease which signals the brain to wake-up (also called an arousal). You awaken briefly (but may not "wake-up"), take a breath and the cycle begins again. In people with severe apnea, this cycle may occur hundreds of times throughout the night, leading to poor quality sleep, daytime drowsiness and potentially contributing to cardiac problems.

When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and air flow stops for more than ten seconds. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.

People with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. Obstructive Sleep Apnea has been associated with cardiovascular problems and excessive daytime sleepiness. The condition known as Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS) lies midway between benign snoring and true obstructive sleep apnea. People with UARS suffer many of the symptoms of OSA, but normal sleep testing will be negative.

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