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Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can be a concerning problem for a person and for the people around them. A person with sleep apnea gasps for air while sleeping, since they stop breathing for short periods of time at night, and end up with poor quality of sleep. Common factors that place you at risk of getting sleep apnea include persistent nasal congestion, genetics, age and obesity. If you’re suffering from sleep apnea in The Woodlands, TX, consult a competent doctor as soon as you can. They can help you implement proper treatment and make lifestyle changes that alleviate its symptoms.
Warning Signs
Snoring can be a little funny or a little annoying at times, but when it comes to sleep apnea, it’s more than that. The snoring becomes very loud and persistent, to the point where it can wake almost everybody up. A person snoring very loudly, all the time can be a good indication that they have sleep apnea. If your snoring wakes people up, even those in the next room, it could be a symptom. Have someone study your breathing at night. Ask them to pay attention to the gaps in your breathing. If your breathing stops for very short periods during the night, you may have sleep apnea. The gaps may not be life-threatening but they may interfere with your sleep, making it difficult for you to fall asleep sometimes.
If you’re recording your sleep, listen for snorting and gasping. It may not happen consistently but regularly from time to time. This is an extension of you not being able to breathe properly, thus you end up gasping for air. Pay attention to symptoms resulting from poor sleep, such as irritation, and fatigue. You may also have difficulty concentrating on difficult tasks and may find yourself snapping at others without meaning to.
Seeking Medical Help
If the symptoms of sleep apnea become very noticeable, you may have to make an appointment with the doctor. You should see a doctor first, so they can determine if you need further assessment or direct treatment. If you don’t have a specific doctor, try to research doctors and nearby clinics that may help. If you feel a little nervous about going for treatment, ask a close friend or relative. That way, you don’t have to go through it alone. It would be better if the person was aware from the beginning and even observed or recorded you while you slept. If they’re close to you, they can help the doctor figure out what kind of symptoms you exhibit.
The doctor will ask for your medical history. He or she might also ask questions about your risk factors. Ensure you’re honest and frank with them to help them come up with the right diagnosis. If the doctor suspects that you have sleep apnea, they will often recommend a sleep study to assess the extent of the disorder. If they need a sleep study, be willing to do it. You can ask your partner or close friend to stay with you if you’re nervous, although sometimes, it can be done at home.
Treatment
A CPAP machine increases airflow to your lungs, helping you to breathe properly and sleep comfortably. However, you may need some time to get used to the device, as it requires you to sleep with a mask every night. Stick to it until it gets comfortable, which usually happens after a few months.