Help for Your Sleep Disorder

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) Heart Lung and Blood Institute, an estimated 18 million Americans have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, a disorder in which air flow is blocked in the upper airway during sleep. Lack of sufficient air causes the individual to briefly awaken, usually with a cough or a gasp that opens the airway. Airflow is re-established and breathing resumes until the next episode.

According to the NIH, adults most likely to have sleep apnea:

• Snore loudly
• Are overweight
• Have high blood pressure
• Have decreased size of the airways in their nose, throat, or mouth. This can be caused by the shape of these structures or by medical conditions causing congestion in these areas, such as hay fever or other allergies.
• Have a family history of sleep apnea
• Experience daytime sleepiness (add)

Left untreated, sleep apnea can result in much more than just a bad night's sleep. It can also increase the chance of high blood pressure and even of having a heart attack or stroke. Untreated sleep apnea can also increase the risk for work-related or driving accidents.

People with sleep disorders often face the day exhausted and unrefreshed. They may be unable to concentrate or have difficulty focusing on daily activities. They may have headaches or sore throats in the morning. They may be irritable, or prone to forgetfulness and depression. Often people with sleep apnea are unaware they have the disorder.

Fortunately, proper diagnosis can lead to effective treatment. If you suspect that you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea, contact your primary care physician or the Hunterdon Medical Center Sleep Lab. If sleep apnea is indicated, a nighttime sleep study (polysomnogram) will be arranged.

During the study, the patient spends the night in a private, bedroom-like setting. Skilled technologists monitor oxygen levels, heart rate and rhythm, breathing, body movements, airflow, and brain waves, all of which measure sleep quality and can detect sleep apnea. Sleep studies may also diagnose other sleep disorders, including periodic limb movements of sleep or narcolepsy.

Depending on the severity of the sleep apnea, treatment may include some changes in daily activities or habits such as a healthier diet and smoking cessation. For many patients with sleep apnea the ideal treatment involves the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure mask (CPAP) that fits over the nose during sleep and blows air into the throat at a pressure level that is adjusted for each person. The air pressure keeps the airway open throughout sleep, eliminating sleep apnea. Other treatment options include upper airway surgery, or the use of a mouthpiece.

Most insurance plans cover the cost of sleep disorders diagnosis and treatment. For more information about sleep disorders or the Sleep Disorders Center at Hunterdon Medical Center, call (908) 788-6392.