Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These interruptions often lead to loud snoring, gasping for air, poor sleep quality, and extreme daytime fatigue. When sleep apnea becomes severe, it can interfere with daily life and even make it difficult to keep a job.
There are two main types of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when the airway collapses or becomes blocked during sleep. Central sleep apnea (CSA) happens when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe. Some people experience a combination of both.
Common risk factors include excess weight, smoking, alcohol use, nasal congestion, and a family history of sleep apnea. Untreated sleep apnea raises the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes, making early diagnosis essential.
Treatment options vary based on severity. Lifestyle changes may help mild cases, while CPAP therapy remains a common treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea. Newer options, such as Inspire therapy, offer alternatives for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP.
In some cases, severe sleep apnea may qualify a person for Social Security Disability benefits if symptoms significantly limit the ability to work and meet federal disability requirements.
If you are struggling with symptoms, a sleep evaluation can help determine the best path forward. Enticare is an ENT clinic located in Casa Grande, offering sleep studies, advanced treatment options, and expert care to help patients breathe and sleep better.