Sleep Apnea Spokane WA - How do you know?

There are certain symptoms that a patient may present with if he or she is losing much needed sleep. What’s interesting about sleep apnea is that it is often a bed partner, friend or family member who notices symptoms first. The patient may be aware only of the fact that he or she is not sleeping well, and feeling tired more often than not. If you are experiencing the symptoms of sleep apnea in Spokane, WA, please visit Dr. Brossoit for a complete examination. Some of the most common symptoms of this sleep disorder include:

• Loud snoring
• Interrupted breathing followed by gasps
• Irritability
• Forgetfulness
• Morning headaches
• Falling asleep during work or other activity
• Anxiety or depression

The truth is, not every person who experiences the above symptoms will have sleep apnea. In fact, it’s possible that all people suffer from one or more of these symptoms every now and then. The difference is that the person with sleep apnea will live with some or all of these conditions all of the time. Suffering from any of these conditions is difficult not only for the patient but also for his or her family, friends and co-workers. Social interactions may be significantly impacted when proper sleep is not obtained. If left untreated for some time, sleep apnea also poses significant health risks such as stroke, irregular heart beat and heart attack.

The first step in the proper diagnosis of sleep apnea may begin right in your dentist’s office. Dr. Brossoit will assess patients and interview family members to rule out other possible causes of symptoms. Should sleep apnea be suspected, the patient will need to undergo a sleep study, called polysomnography, which takes place overnight in a sleep study center. Polysomnography includes:

• EMG-electromyography, which is monitoring of muscle tone.
• EEG-electro-encephalography, which is the monitoring of brain waves.
• ECG-electrocardiography, which is the monitoring of heart activity.

Polysomnography will also monitor heart rate and blood oxygen levels, and record chest and abdomen movements as well as airflow through the mouth and nose.

The testing process to rule out or diagnose sleep apnea should not cause alarm. Sleep apnea in Spokane, WA is a potentially dangerous condition that requires proper treatment and follow-up. Much of the time, lifestyle changes and a simple dental appliance will work wonders at improving sleep patterns. However, it is through testing that we can determine the best course of action.

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