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Could you be one of the millions of Americans who have sleep apnea in Washington, DC? According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, 80% of the 22 million people estimated to have the condition aren't aware of it. If you're one of them, prompt treatment by your ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, Dr. William Bond can help you protect your health.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when you stop breathing momentarily while you're asleep. Sleep apnea breathing pauses don't just happen once but can occur hundreds of time throughout the night. The pauses deprive your brain of oxygen and may increase your risk of heart attack, heart failure, stroke, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, diabetes, and depression.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
You may experience one or more of these symptoms if you have sleep apnea.
- Loud Snoring: Loud snoring doesn't necessarily mean that you have sleep apnea but many people who have the condition do snore quite loudly.
- Choking, Gasping and Snorting: If you have sleep apnea, the walls of your throat may become too relaxed or even collapse while you sleep, preventing air from reaching your lungs. When this happens, your body prompts you to breathe again by making you gasp, choke or snort.
- Breathing Pauses: Obviously, you may not be aware that you've stopped breathing, but family members may mention it to you.
- Fatigue: Do you frequently feel sleepy during the day or lack energy? Since sleep apnea constantly disrupts your sleep, it's not surprising that you're tired.
- Irritability: Constant fatigue may make you feel irritable and moody.
- Concentration Issues: Difficulty concentrating or problems with your memory might also be related to sleep apnea.
- Discomfort: People who have sleep apnea often complain of morning headaches, dry mouth or sore throats.
How is sleep apnea treated in Washington, DC?
During your visit to the ENT office, your doctor may recommend that you use a continuous positive airway machine (CPAP) to prevent sleep apnea. Pressurized air delivered through a small mask stops your throat from closing when you sleep.
An oral appliance is another option. The appliance, worn over your teeth, holds your jaw forward, preventing your tongue from blocking your airway. Lifestyle changes, including losing weight and decreasing your alcohol intake, may reduce your symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be an option.
Are you concerned that you may have sleep apnea in Washington, DC? Call your ENT specialist, Dr. Bond, at (202) 726-7770 to schedule your appointment.
