Sleep Apnea

Restful Nights, Vibrant Days: Thriving with Sleep Apnea Challenges

At Universal Hospital, we understand the impact that sleep apnea can have on your daily life. Our dedicated team of sleep specialists is committed to providing personalized and effective treatment options to help you achieve restful, rejuvenating sleep.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses in breathing, known as apneas, can occur repeatedly throughout the night and may last for seconds to minutes. Sleep apnea can have significant health implications and impact the overall quality of sleep.

Types of Sleep Apnea

The causes of sleep apnea can vary depending on the type:

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Often linked to excess weight, obesity, or anatomical factors that narrow the airway.
  • Central Sleep Apnea: Can result from medical conditions affecting the brainstem, such as heart failure or stroke.
  • Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Develops in some individuals as a combination of OSA and central sleep apnea.

Causes

The primary risk factor for lung cancer is cigarette smoking, accounting for the majority of cases. Other risk factors include:

  • Exposure to Secondhand Smoke: Non-smokers exposed to tobacco smoke are also at risk.
  • Occupational Exposures: Asbestos, radon, and certain industrial substances can increase the risk.
  • Family History: A family history of lung cancer may contribute to an individual’s risk.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Sleep-Apnea

Symptoms

Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:

  • Loud Snoring: Particularly in obstructive sleep apnea.
  • Pauses in Breathing: Observed by a bed partner.
  • Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: Resulting from fragmented sleep.
  • Morning Headaches: Caused by the drop in oxygen levels during apneas.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing sleep apnea involves a sleep study, which can be conducted in a sleep clinic or at home using portable monitoring devices. The study measures various parameters during sleep, including airflow, oxygen levels, and breathing effort.

Treatment

Treatment for sleep apnea depends on the severity and type. Common approaches include:

  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A machine that delivers a constant stream of air to keep the airway open.
  • Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP): Adjusts air pressure during inhalation and exhalation.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Weight loss, positional therapy, and avoiding alcohol or sedatives.
  • Surgery: In cases where anatomical issues contribute to obstructive sleep apnea.
Treatment for sleep apnea

Living with Sleep Apnea

Living with sleep apnea involves:

  • Adherence to Treatment: Using prescribed devices consistently.
  • Regular Follow-ups: Monitoring sleep apnea symptoms and treatment effectiveness.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Promoting overall sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule.

Chest Physician & Intensivist

Interventional Pulmonologist

ECMO Specialist

Chest Physician & Intensivist

Your Questions, 

Our Expertise 

 
Let’s Connect for a Healthier Tomorrow!