Sleep Apnea

It is a medical disorder defined by the multiple occurrences of breathing cessation of at least 10 secs during sleep, often resulting in daytime sleepiness. Basically, you stop breathing many times during sleep and this will lead to a life threatening condition!
There are 3 types of apnea: obstructive, central and mixed. The most common is obstructive and is usually seen in middle-aged and older men as well as overweight adults. But don’t let this fool you, it is also found in children and young thin adults.


Sleep apnea can be recognized by a number of symptoms. Loud intermittent snoring is 1 warning signal. The person with sleep apnea may experience a choking sensation, or early-morning headaches.. The bed partner or roommate might comment on excessive body movements or snorting or gasping for breath during sleeping of the person with apnea.

The symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea may also include abnormal pattern of snoring with pauses and gasps. Other symptoms include  excessive daytime sleepiness, memory
GOOD NEWS: the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends oral appliances as a first-line treatment for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. The important factor is that you report your symptoms and seek diagnosis and treatment.
loss and hi blood pressure. An airway obstruction causes the blood oxygen level to fall, increases stress on the heart, raises blood pressure, and prevents the patient from entering restful and restorative stage of sleep. So, sleep apnea causes deprivation of good quality sleep, depression, irritability and acid reflux.  In some people, sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke and heart attack.  If the condition is suspected report it to Dr. Pouchet, who may recommend evaluation by a sleep specialist.
Depending on the diagnosis, there are different forms of treatment available, including a CPAP (continuos positive airway pressure) or ORAL APPLIANCE.