Sleep Apnea, Disability & Treatment in Scottsdale, Arizona
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, often leading to loud snoring, gasping for air, and chronic exhaustion. In severe cases, sleep apnea can interfere with your ability to work, which is why some patients explore Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, reducing oxygen levels and disrupting rest. Common symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, insomnia, morning headaches, and loud snoring. The main types are:
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Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Caused by airway blockage
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Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Caused by disrupted brain signals
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Complex Sleep Apnea: A combination of both
Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
Causes & Treatment Options
Risk factors include obesity, smoking, alcohol use, family history, large neck size, and nasal congestion. Treatment options range from lifestyle changes and CPAP therapy to advanced solutions like Inspire® hypoglossal nerve stimulation, an FDA-approved implant that helps keep the airway open during sleep. Surgical treatment may be recommended when other options are ineffective.
Sleep Apnea & Social Security Disability
The Social Security Administration does not list sleep apnea as a disability on its own. However, severe sleep apnea may qualify for SSD if related conditions—such as heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, or cognitive impairment—prevent you from working for at least 12 months.
Sleep Apnea Care in Scottsdale, AZ
Enticare is an ENT clinic located in Scottsdale, Arizona, providing comprehensive sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment. Our specialists offer sleep studies, CPAP alternatives, Inspire therapy, and surgical options to help patients breathe better, sleep deeper, and improve overall quality of life.
If sleep apnea is affecting your health or ability to work, schedule an appointment with Enticare to explore your treatment options.