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ENT, Sleep Apnea, and Heart Disease – Oh My!

Isn’t sleep apnea just a fancy name for snoring? NO- sleep apnea is when an individual’s throat becomes obstructed or shuts down when they are sleeping. If air is not able to pass through the throat, interruptions in breathing deprive the lungs of oxygen. This increases blood pressure, increases heart rate, and causes significant stress on the body. What is supposed to be a peaceful and resting time for your body can instead become a fight for its life.

Many individuals with sleep apnea report feeling tired, trouble concentrating, and headaches. However, what they don’t realize is the high blood pressure and increased heart rate are slowly causing heart disease. Serious health conditions are at risk- coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, and irregular heartbeat.

The first step to managing your sleep apnea is an evaluation with an ENT physician. An ENT evaluation will involve an exam of the anatomical nose and throat structures and, possibly, a sleep study. The appropriate recommendation will be made based on the evaluation. Sometimes, a CPAP machine or Inspire surgery is recommended. The CPAP machine works to help open the airway for easier breathing. Our own ENT physician, Dr. Michael Layland, is an expert in Inspire technology. Learn more about the Inspire technology today.

Finding solutions for your sleep apnea is a huge step towards a great night’s sleep and better health. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above, please schedule an appointment with us today so we can determine the underlying cause and create a treatment plan. Schedule your appointment at the Ear, Nose, and Throat Center today, call 847-685-1000.

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