Millions of Americans snore during the night. Unfortunately, a night of snoring does more than just annoy your partner, it can also lead to poor sleep quality and health issues. Snoring is one of the first signs of the sleep disorder Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — but does that mean that everyone who snores suffers from OSA? Today, the expert team at Common Sleep will discuss snoring, sleep apnea, and the steps you should take to find out if you need treatment for an undiagnosed sleep disorder.
Snoring vs. Sleep Apnea
Understanding the difference between simple snoring and the more serious condition of sleep apnea is crucial to determining the proper treatment for your condition. Snoring occurs when your airway is blocked, which causes the vibrating sound we know as snoring. Your anatomy, your sleep position, and your lifestyle affect the sound of the vibration and the frequency in which it occurs. However, not everyone who snores experiences the pauses in breathing that those with OSA experience.
Loud, frequent snoring — accompanied by occasional pauses in breathing or gasps for air — are an indication of OSA. When people with sleep apnea fall asleep, they may stop breathing for periods as long as a minute before gasping for air. Both conditions can be exacerbated by obesity, aging, neck circumference, and a whole host of other factors.
How Do I Find Out If I Have Sleep Apnea?
If you or your partner are a loud, frequent snorer — your best bet is to visit a sleep clinic as soon as possible. Sleep apnea can have serious side effects, including high blood pressure, stroke, and even premature death. Yes, many people see snoring as a funny idiosyncrasy. In reality, OSA can be a life-threatening condition if left untreated.
Visit a Sleep Specialist Today
If you are suffering from a sleep disorder, Common Sleep has a team of sleep specialists ready to help. Luckily, a number of treatments have been developed to help overcome sleep apnea. In order to become eligible for these treatments, you must first diagnose the disorder you are experiencing. Common Sleep is the number one sleep clinic in Springfield, MO. Contact our team today to schedule a sleep study.
