1315 East Blvd #260, Charlotte, NC 28203
1315 East Blvd #260, Charlotte, NC 28203
Experiencing frequent awakenings during the night due to breathing difficulties could be indicative of sleep apnea, a condition that should not be overlooked. At Charlotte Sleep Doctor, under the expert guidance of Dr. Kathryn Sudikoff, our dedicated team is keenly aware of the profound impact this disorder can have, including symptoms like debilitating fatigue, elevated blood pressure, and other significant health concerns. Recognizing the importance of restorative sleep, we strongly encourage you to contact us for a consultation if you’re struggling to achieve the rest you need. Our commitment is to provide a thorough diagnosis and tailor a treatment plan specifically designed to address your unique needs, helping you return to a life of quality rest and improved well-being.
Sleep apnea, a widespread sleep disorder impacting numerous individuals across the United States, is characterized by breathing interruptions during sleep. These pauses in breathing, often accompanied by snoring, can last over 10 seconds and may occur repeatedly. Due to symptoms that overlap with other medical conditions, sleep apnea is frequently misidentified. The disorder poses significant health risks, as it can adversely affect critical organs like the heart and brain. Without appropriate management, the consequences of sleep apnea can be severe, potentially leading to life-threatening complications. It is essential to understand and address this condition promptly and effectively.
Contrary to the common misconception that sleep apnea is exclusively an adult condition, children are also susceptible to this breathing difficulty during sleep. Key factors contributing to sleep apnea include:
Recognizing the symptoms of sleep apnea can be challenging, particularly for those who live alone. Nonetheless, there are certain signs that may suggest the presence of this prevalent disorder:
Sleep apnea manifests in three distinct forms: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), Central Sleep Apnea (CSA), and Complex Sleep Apnea. OSA, the most frequently observed type, happens when the soft tissues in the back of the throat relax excessively and block the air passage, hindering proper breathing. CSA is characterized by the brain’s failure to signal the body to breathe while asleep, leading to interruptions in breathing during the night. Complex Sleep Apnea is a condition that encompasses both OSA and CSA characteristics.
To determine whether your symptoms are due to sleep apnea, an initial step is to undertake a sleep study. This evaluation can be conducted in a specialized sleep lab, where technicians will observe you overnight using diverse equipment. Alternatively, an at-home sleep test is available, which involves wearing a specific device while you sleep. This device tracks your heart rate, breathing patterns, and any disruptions in your sleep. After the completion of this test, a healthcare expert will review the collected data to decide if a formal diagnosis of sleep apnea is appropriate.
Oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea is generally covered by most medical insurance providers as it’s considered medically necessary. It’s crucial for team members to get pre-authorization to confirm coverage and find out the extent of it. Any potential out-of-pocket costs will be disclosed prior to treatment. For individuals with Medicare and an additional supplemental policy, it’s improbable that there will be any charges for sleep apnea treatment.
