How do we diagnose obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) for our Pearland, TX, patients? In the past, diagnosis would rely on trying to sleep in an uncomfortable lab setting. Fortunately, we can now diagnose the disorder from the comfort of your own home!
The Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea means patients stop breathing in the night, as the collapse of soft tissues block airflow. They are woken up to resume breathing, often hundreds of times each night. They may not remember these episodes, but often feel exhausted and moody during the day. Hey may also notice they wake suddenly trying to breath or choking. Other warning signs include headaches during the day, dry mouth when waking up, and trouble staying focused during the day. Without treatment, the disorder eventually leads to higher blood pressure and increased risk of heart attack and stroke, as well as depression.
Our Comfortable Home Sleep Test
If you think the symptoms above sound familiar, then let us know. We will send you home with a sleep test. The small machine will measure your blood oxygen levels and take a record of any apneic episodes. We then examine the results to see if you need treatment and which option will best suit you. Using this test, we offer patients a more accurate (and comfortable) option for diagnosing OSA.
Personalized Sleep Solutions
How do we treat sleep apnea? Often, we recommend a sleep appliance. Similar to a nightguard, the device will be worn at night as you rest. The appliance actually repositions your jaw, moving it forward slightly to prevent soft tissue collapse and ensure open airways. Patients then breathe easier and avoid the symptoms of OSA. If you have any questions about these appliances, or if you’re ready to undergo a diagnosis, then contact our team today.
Do You Need a Home Sleep Test?
We want to help you rest easier and enjoy better quality of life. Talk to our team about our personalized sleep solutions. To learn more, call Houston Sleep Solutions in Spring, TX, at (281) 320-2000, or in Pearland, TX, at (832) 564-3508.
