Here at Reimer Wellness Center of Los Altos we specialize in sleep apnea and have helped many people live happier and healthier lives in spite of their condition. Here are some important things we believe everyone needs to know about sleep apnea, whether they are suffering from it themselves, a friend or, a loved one.
Warning Signs of Sleep Apnea
One of the things that make sleep apnea so risky is that it can happen for a long period of time without much indication that something is wrong. The most common signs that make someone think they may have sleep apnea is loud constant snoring, silent pauses in breathing, sore dry throat when waking up, waking up gasping for breath and feeling tired despite sleeping for many hours.
Causes of Sleep Apnea
We are still learning more about sleep apnea and its causes and there is still much more to learn about this disorder. However, we do know of several factors that can cause sleep apnea or make someone more prone to this condition. These factors include being overweight, being a smoker or former smoker, having GERD or stomach issues, and having a history of sleep apnea in the family.
Risks of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that can have major health impacts if it is left untreated. When you have sleep apnea, your body is under-rested wake up many times throughout the night so you don’t get the rest you need, the lack of sleep can affect your heart, lungs, and other organs. Excessive snoring and pauses in breathing throughout the night can lower oxygen levels in the blood to dangerous levels.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Thanks to continued research and study we have more sleep apnea treatments than we did just 5-10 years ago. Most treatments focus on keeping the airways open so you can breathe throughout the night. Consider making lifestyle changes to make it easier for your body less prone to sleep apnea. Losing weight, cutting back on drinking, and quitting the smoking habit are examples of this.
Sleep Apnea Equipment
When you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea you will be using specialized equipment to help you breathe easier throughout the night. Specialized machines will keep airflow going into the lungs so you can breathe. Utilizing a face mask, tubes, and a special air pressure machine. Your doctor or sleep specialist will help you get the right equipment and get the care you need for your sleep apnea.
Contact Us Today
Get the help you need dealing with your sleep apnea or finding out if you, a loved one do indeed have sleep apnea. Contact Reimer Wellness Center Los Altos, CA today at 650.492.6067!