Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea symptoms and stages

Sleep Apnea Statistics

An estimated 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea
1 in 5 adults have mild OSA and 1 in 15 have moderate OSA
2 to 4% of Americans have an undiagnosed case of sleep apnea
On an average night, a sufferer of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can experience 60 apneas per hour
Approximately 38,000 deaths occur on an annual basis related to cardiovascular issues linked to sleep apnea, according to the National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research

Of adults report snoring at night.

Of adults have fallen asleep unintentionally during the day.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can affect both males and females but some people are more at risk for developing this problem than others. For example, males over the age of 40 and those who are overweight may be more likely to experience problems with breathing. Some of the reasons why people develop sleep apnea symptoms include:

Having a Larger Than Average Throat

Being Overweight

Having Large Tonsils

A Family History of Sleep Apnea

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder (GERD)

Nasal Obstructions

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Sleep Apnea Stages

Cases of sleep apnea can be classified as mild, moderate or severe based on the number of times per hour the patient stops breathing or where there is reduced airflow to the lungs. This can be measured in a sleep clinic or with an at-home sleep apnea test kit.

Mild Sleep Apnea – 5 to 14 episodes of apnea or reduced airflow to the lungs every hour.
Moderate Sleep Apnea – 15 to 29 episodes of apnea or reduced airflow to the lungs every hour.
Severe Apnea – 30 or more episodes of apnea or reduced airflow to the lungs every hour.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

If you recognize one or more of the following sleep apnea symptoms, schedule your evaluation with our doctor. We may recommend a take-home sleep apnea test to determine whether you need treatment for OSA. Symptoms include:

Being tired throughout the day
Having a sore throat upon waking
Experiencing morning headaches
Waking up because of snoring
Falling asleep throughout the day
Bouts of insomnia
Waking up gasping for air

Learn more about sleep apnea symptoms and treatment for sleep apnea by scheduling your appointment today.

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