Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea

Snoring, Fatigue, and Poor Sleep? It Could Be Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep, interrupting normal breathing patterns. These pauses in breathing can happen dozens or even hundreds of times a night, leading to poor sleep quality and oxygen deprivation.

The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), caused by the relaxation of throat muscles blocking the airway.

  • ● Loud, chronic snoring● Waking up gasping for air● Excessive daytime sleepiness● Morning headaches● Difficulty concentrating● Irritability or mood changes● Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking● Witnessed pauses in breathing during sleep

  • Several factors increase the risk of developing sleep apnea:● Excess weight or obesity● Enlarged tonsils or adenoids (especially in children)● Deviated nasal septum or nasal congestion● Family history of sleep apnea● Smoking or alcohol use● Age (more common after age 40)

  • Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including:● High blood pressure (hypertension)● Heart disease and arrhythmias● Type 2 diabetes● Stroke● Depression or anxiety● Increased risk of accidents due to fatigue

  • If sleep apnea is suspected, we may recommend:● Sleep study (polysomnography) — an overnight test measuring breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain activity● Home sleep apnea testing — for select patients
    Evaluation also includes a thorough head and neck examination to assess for anatomical causes of obstruction.

  • Non-Surgical Options:● CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine to keep the airway open● Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, positional therapy, or smoking cessation● Oral appliance therapy to reposition the jaw and open the airway
    Surgical Treatments:● Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (especially in children)● Nasal surgery (e.g., septoplasty, turbinate reduction)● Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) to remove tissue at the back of the throat
    Our team will create a customized treatment plan based on the severity and cause of your sleep apnea.

  • If you experience loud snoring, excessive daytime tiredness, or signs of disrupted breathing during sleep, it’s time to get evaluated. Early diagnosis and treatment can dramatically improve your health and quality of life.

Next Steps

Tired of feeling tired? Schedule a sleep apnea consultation with ENT Sinus Center of Orlando today and start breathing — and sleeping — better.