Sleep apnea is a common condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to various health problems if left untreated. If you’re in Woodstock, GA, and suspect you might have sleep apnea, it’s essential to seek professional help.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
- What is it? Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These interruptions can occur multiple times per hour, disrupting your sleep cycle and reducing oxygen levels in your blood.
- Types: The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the airway becomes blocked, usually by the soft tissues in the back of the throat.
- Symptoms: Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, daytime sleepiness, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
Sleep Apnea Studies in Woodstock, GA
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, a sleep study is crucial for diagnosis. Here’s what you need to know about studies in Woodstock, GA:
- Where to go: Give us a call at our office to schedule
- Types of studies:
- Polysomnography (PSG): This comprehensive overnight study is conducted at a sleep center. It monitors brain waves, eye movements, heart rate, breathing patterns, and oxygen levels.
- Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT): This test allows you to sleep in your own bed while monitoring breathing patterns. Weiss & West ENT offers this for convenience.
Sleep Apnea Treatments in Woodstock, GA
Various treatments are available, depending on the severity of your sleep apnea:
- CPAP Therapy: A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is a common treatment. It involves wearing a mask that delivers a steady stream of air to keep your airway open during sleep.
- Oral Appliances: These custom-fitted mouthguards can help reposition your jaw, preventing airway blockage.
- Other Options: Some facilities offer advanced therapies, such as AVAPS, OAT, Inspire and Respicardia.
- Surgical Options: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove obstructions or widen the airway.
Why Choose Dr. West?
Dr. Emma West at Weiss & West ENT in Woodstock, GA, is a highly recommended specialist for sleep apnea. Here’s why:
- Expertise: Dr. West is board-certified in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and has a particular interest in treating obstructive sleep apnea.
- Comprehensive Care: Weiss & West ENT offers a full spectrum of services, including sleep apnea therapies.
- Patient-Centered Approach: Dr. West is known for her compassionate care and personalized treatment plans, prioritizing patient comfort and well-being.
- Local Roots: As a Woodstock native, Dr. West is committed to serving her community and improving her patients’ quality of life.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to seek help. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can breathe easier and enjoy a better night’s sleep. Consider consulting with Dr. West for expert care in the Woodstock area.
