Sleep Apnea Doctor in Michigan
Sleep Apnea, Diagnosis Symptoms and Treatments
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that is characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, leading to a lack of oxygen and poor quality sleep. In this article, we will discuss the diagnosis, symptoms, causes, treatments, prevention, and other facts and considerations related to sleep apnea.
How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
• Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study, which measures various bodily functions during sleep, including breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and brain activity.
• Other diagnostic tests may include a physical exam, medical history, and blood tests to rule out other underlying health conditions.
Dr. Asker Asmi, MD is a certified pulmonologist, and sleep disorders doctor in Michigan
Dr. Asmi’s Beaumont Hospital Page
Dr. Asmi’s Henry Ford Profile Page
Dr. Asmi is a Pulmonologist and sleep specialist based in Michigan that specializes in advanced COPD. He follows a multidisciplinary treatment plan that includes nutrition, medicine, lifestyle changes, damage prevention and active treatment with close follow up. Doctor Asmi’s expertise include Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Medicine. Dr. Asmi is also affiliated with Beaumont Hospital and runs a private practice in Riverview, MI.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
• Loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep.
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• In severe cases, sleep apnea can also lead to depression, irritability, and even heart disease.
What can cause sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is caused by a variety of factors, including obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Genetics may also play a role in the development of sleep apnea.
Understanding the Different Types of Sleep Apnea
While most people are familiar with the most common form of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, there are actually two other types of sleep apnea that are less well-known.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open during sleep, causing interruptions in breathing. OSA is most commonly seen in overweight or obese individuals, as excess body fat can put pressure on the airway and make it more difficult to keep open.
Central Sleep Apnea
Central sleep apnea (CSA) is a type of sleep apnea where the brain does not send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing, resulting in a lack of oxygen and poor quality sleep. It is less common than obstructive sleep apnea.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Complex sleep apnea syndrome (CSAS) is also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea and is a type of sleep apnea that emerges when obstructive sleep apnea is treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. In some individuals, CPAP therapy can actually worsen central sleep apnea, leading to the development of CSAS. Sleep monitoring of individuals who are receiving CPAP therapy becomes important to ensure that it any emergent CSAS is properly diagnosed and treated.
While obstructive sleep apnea is by far the most common type of sleep apnea, it is important to be aware of the other types of sleep apnea that exist. If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the type of sleep apnea you have and develop an appropriate treatment plan. By making healthy lifestyle choices, following a treatment plan, and regularly monitoring symptoms, individuals can improve their quality of sleep and overall health.
What are the best treatments for sleep apnea?
Treatments for sleep apnea may include the following:
• Lifestyle changes, such as focusing on diet, weight loss and smoking cessation.
• A CPAP machine (continuous positive airway pressure) that can assist in keeping the airway open during sleep.
• Surgery may also be an option for some patients.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to managing the condition and reducing the risk of complications. By making healthy lifestyle choices and seeking medical attention when needed, individuals can improve their quality of sleep and overall health.
How can I prevent sleep apnea?
There are several lifestyle changes that can be made to alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea.
• Losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, and sleeping on your side instead of your back can all help to reduce the severity of sleep apnea.
• Additionally, practicing good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding electronic devices before bedtime, can help to improve the quality of sleep.
• It is also important to note that certain medications can worsen sleep apnea symptoms, such as muscle relaxants and painkillers. If you have sleep apnea, it is important to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking to ensure that they do not exacerbate your symptoms.
• Finally, if you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, it is important to regularly monitor your symptoms and treatment plan. If you experience any changes in your symptoms or the effectiveness of your treatment, be sure to consult with your doctor to discuss potential adjustments to your treatment plan.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is obstructive sleep apnea (osa)?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open during sleep, causing interruptions in breathing. OSA is most commonly seen in overweight or obese individuals, as excess body fat can put pressure on the airway and make it more difficult to keep open. The most common symptoms of OSA include snoring, gasping for air or severe breathing difficulty and choking during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, focus and concentration issues.
What are CPAP alternatives?
There are several alternative treatment options available for individuals with sleep apnea who cannot tolerate or do not wish to use continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines. One option is a dental appliance, which is designed to reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. Other options include positional therapy, which involves sleeping in a specific position to prevent obstruction of the airway, and surgery to remove excess tissue from the airway. In addition, there are several newer treatments available, such as hypoglossal nerve stimulation and the use of oral pressure therapy devices. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for your individual needs.
What kind of doctor treats sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is typically treated by sleep medicine specialists or pulmonologists.
What sleep apnea is worse?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is generally considered to be the most common and severe type of sleep apnea.
Why does sleep apnea cause weight gain?
Sleep apnea can cause weight gain due to disruptions in the body's hormone levels, which can lead to an increase in appetite and a decrease in metabolism.
Can sleep apnea cause high blood pressure?
Sleep apnea can cause high blood pressure. The repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep can lead to changes in hormone levels and increased inflammation, both of which can contribute to hypertension.
Which sleep apnea mask is best for me?
The best sleep apnea mask will vary for each individual, as different masks have different features. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best type of mask for your individual needs.
Which sleep apnea mask is best for me?
The best sleep apnea mask will vary for each individual, as different masks have different features. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best type of mask for your individual needs.
Will sleep apnea go away on its own?
No, sleep apnea will not go away on its own. It is a chronic condition that requires medical intervention and management.
Are sleep apnea machines covered by insurance?
Yes, sleep apnea machines are often covered by insurance. Most private health insurance policies, as well as government plans such as Medicare, offer partial coverage for CPAP machines and other positive airway pressure (PAP) equipment. You will need to check with your insurance to see what is and isn't covered by your plan.
Can sleep apnea occur without snoring?
Yes, it is possible to have certain types of sleep apnea without any snoring. Individuals with central sleep apnea may not snore because their bodies do not make an effort to breathe during sleep for a period of time. Snoring is only associated with obstructive sleep apnea, which is caused by the muscles in the throat relaxing and blocking the airway.
What if sleep apnea is left untreated?
Untreated sleep apnea can cause cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and strokes.
How to prepare for your sleep apnea related appointment
• If you are preparing for a sleep apnea related appointment, it is important to gather as much information as possible about your symptoms and medical history. This can help your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
• Before your appointment, make a list of any symptoms you have been experiencing, as well as any medications you are currently taking.
• You may also want to keep a sleep diary for a few days to record your sleep habits and any symptoms you experience during the night.
• It is also a good idea to bring a family member or friend with you to the appointment who can provide additional information or support.
• Finally, be prepared to ask questions and advocate for yourself if you feel that your concerns are not being addressed. By taking an active role in your healthcare, you can improve the quality of your sleep and overall health.