More than 100 million Americans of all ages regularly fail to get a good night's sleep. There are at least 84 disorders that affect sleep and lead to a lowered quality of life and reduced personal health. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is one of the most important and undiagnosed of these disorders with symptoms ranging from excessive daytime sleepiness to hypertension and other heart problems.
OSAS is a disorder involving frequent partial or complete collapse of the breathing
passageways during sleep. During sleep, the muscles in the throat and tongue
relax, making the airway more susceptible to collapse. When the airway is totally
blocked, no breathing occurs and oxygen levels drastically drop. People with
OSAS will awaken themselves in order to breath again. If your sleeping partner
snores and awakens frequently gasping then they should be evaluated by a physician
trained in this area. There are treatments available including CPAP (Continuous
Positive Air Pressure) and oral repositioning devices both of which keep the
airway open for these patients. Dr. M has attained credentialed status in this
treatment by the Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Sleep Medicine Network: Affiliate Dentist Dr. Steve Marinkovich
Sleep
Medicine Network
American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
American Academy of Sleep Medicine
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