Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treated by Baltimore Doctors

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the most common types of sleep apnea. It occurs when a person's breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep, restricting or reducing normal airflow to the lungs. In this type of sleep apnea, breathing is most commonly restricted when throat muscles relax and block airflow into the lungs.

Based on the average number of sleep apnea episodes, obstructive sleep apnea is categorized as moderate or severe. Anyone at any age can experience obstructive sleep apnea, however, it is more common in some populations, such as middle-aged and older adults, and more men than women.

If not treated, frequent apnea can lead to serious health problems. A lung doctor can help diagnose sleep apnea through a sleep study.

Signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea vary from person to person. Some symptoms may occur while the person is awake while others can occur during sleep.

Symptoms while awake may include:

• Feeling tired when waking up
• Daytime sleepiness
• Sudden mood changes
• Memory loss or trouble concentrating
• Headaches
• Insomnia

Symptoms while sleeping may include:

• Snoring
• Night sweats or feeling restless during sleep
• Waking up feeling short of breath or choking
• Pauses in breathing during sleep
• Frequent waking up during the night

Obstructive sleep apnea can be diagnosed by a sleep expert through a variety of diagnostic tests, including:

• Physical examination
• At home sleep study to monitor:
  • Airflow
  • Blood oxygen levels
  • Breathing patterns
  • Electrical activity in the brain
  • Eye movement
  • Heart rate or rhythm
  • Muscle activity

Treatment options are typically based on the severity of the condition and may include:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Altering sleeping positions
• Nasal medications
• Oral, nasal or upper airway devices such as CPAP or upper airway stimulator
• Surgery