Sleep Disorders
Sleep Disorders
Determining if a person has a sleep disorder can be a challenge. Not all symptoms occur while you are asleep. Symptoms to look for include:
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Heartburn and GERD
- Loud Snoring
- Morning headaches
- Obesity
- Teeth grinding and dental changes
Dr. DiGioia may also recommend a sleep study, which is a diagnostic tool that monitors breathing, heart rate and blood pressure levels during sleep. Sleep studies can be important for diagnosis because they provide even more information on what your body is doing while you’re asleep.
If you suspect a sleep breathing disorder in you or a loved one, contact us today.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea, otherwise known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is a condition that affects men and women. It gradually worsens with age and increased weight. People with sleep apnea experience disturbed sleep because their airway passage closes forcing them to take deep breaths. This cycle repeats throughout the night causing disrupted sleep. People with sleep apnea are more likely to have cardiovascular disease, hypertension and diabetes, to list a few.
Some of the leading risk factors for OSA are:
- Excessive weight
- Aging
- Anatomic abnormalities in the upper airway
- A family history of sleep apnea
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking and hypertension
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
People with sleep apnea probably won’t be the first to know that they have the condition. It is usually observed by their partner. Some of the symptoms include:
- Irregular snoring with pauses
- Gasping or choking
- Gastro-esophageal reflux (GERD)
- Disrupted, light sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Poor memory
- Irritability
- Morning headaches
- Sexual dysfunction
Sleep Apnea Treatment
We can offer an alternative to CPAP Machines. Behavioral and lifestyle modifications too are part of the sleep apnea treatment. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Lisa DiGioia will recommend and provide the right treatment for you. Give us a call today.
