Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) affects millions of adults and children across the United States, and yet many are completely unaware of the effects this condition may be having on their lives and health. Snoring, dangerous breathing pauses, and gasping for air during sleep are some of the most common symptoms; however, sleep apnea can also cause a number of debilitating effects during waking hours that may significantly impact an individual’s day-to-day life.
Dr. Michael Fulbright is a diplomate of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and offers a comprehensive sleep apnea treatment program at Fulbright Snoring & Sleep Solutions. During a complimentary consultation here at our practice, Dr. Fulbright can evaluate your needs and prescribe advanced treatment techniques designed to reduce the symptoms and health risks that sleep apnea can cause. We also offer a mobile service that can come to your home if you are unable to travel.
If you suspect that you or someone you love is suffering from sleep apnea, please contact us today to schedule your free consultation and oral evaluation.
Sleep apnea is a condition that can cause loud snoring and breathing cessation as one sleeps. While there are three major types of sleep apnea, Obstructive Sleep Apnea is the most common. OSA is typically caused by the excessive relaxation of oral tissues while sleeping, resulting in the restriction or total collapse of airways during sleep. A person with OSA may snore loudly and/or experience breathing pauses that last for extensive periods of time. Sleep apnea can cause a variety of symptoms that affect one’s daily life and significantly increase risks to one’s health. In some cases, sleep apnea can even lead to sudden cardiac death. The potentially life-threatening effects of sleep apnea make it extremely important for those who suspect they may have the condition to obtain an evaluation as soon as possible.
OSA in children is more common than you may think. In fact, children often exhibit daytime behaviors that may be associated with sleep apnea; however, they go undiagnosed because the symptoms seem unrelated. In addition to dangerous (even life-threatening) breathing pauses and snoring during sleep, OSA can potentially lead to exhaustion, trouble concentrating, sleepwalking, depression, and an array of other symptoms. In some cases, children with sleep apnea may be misdiagnosed as suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Dr. Fulbright offers an array of Pediatric Sleep Apnea treatment options designed to help children overcome structural issues that may be contributing to blocked oral and nasal passages during sleep. Our practice can explore treatment techniques that offer the best chance of diminishing many of the emotional and physical effects caused by sleep apnea.
