Do you know what OSA refers to? Are you already familiar with sleep apnea as a problem associated with heavy snoring but you’re not really sure what it’s all about, how to know if it’s affecting you, or how to make things better? Let’s review!
OSA Means Obstructive Sleep Apnea
When you see the abbreviation “OSA” remember that this refers to obstructive sleep apnea. It’s a sleep disorder that causes you to deal with sleep that’s consistently interrupted because your airways become blocked. Hence, the “obstructive” part of the disorder’s name. What’s getting in the way of your ability to breathe, you ask? It’s your own tissues! They should not relax or slide in toward your throat but in this case they do. In response, you wake in an urgent state (your brain is letting you know you need to breathe!), you begin breathing, and then sleep continues.
You’re Waking Up A Lot (Really)
Here’s what you need to understand: This isn’t a one-time thing. Your sleep apnea episodes are occurring often hundreds of times throughout the night. Think about what this means: First, you’re not getting enough sleep. Second, over and over, your brain recognizes that you’re not breathing, which means you’re not getting the oxygen every single cell and process of your body requires for good health and function. This presents tons of hazards to your health in general because you need rest. In addition, oxygen deprivation is dangerous for your brain and your organs and can eventually lead to major health concerns.
The Good News
We are here to help with your obstructive sleep apnea. If you even have the slightest suspicion that it may affect you, let us know. We will guide you toward OSA treatment ASAP.
See Us For OSA Help
We offer sleep apnea treatment and care for other sleep disorder concerns, so you can get your sleep and your life back on track. James Stewart, DDS, and our team serve patients from Livonia, MI, as well as Farmington Hills, Farmington, Plymouth, Northville, Novi, Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, Garden City, Westland, Redford, and the surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.
