Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during the night. It can result from various factors, but the two main types are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), when throat muscles relax too much, and central sleep apnea (CSA) when the brain doesn't send proper signals to control breathing.
Common causes of OSA include excess weight, obesity, and anatomical factors like a narrow throat or large tonsils. CSA may result from medical conditions such as heart failure or stroke. Sleep apnea symptoms can be subtle but often include loud snoring, choking or gasping for air during sleep, excessive daytime fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. You might not realize these symptoms impact you until your sleep partner points them out.
If you or a loved one experiences signs of sleep apnea in Long Beach, CA, visit the Tan Head and Neck Clinic. Our ENTs specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders, offering state-of-the-art sleep studies and personalized treatment plans.
When Should I Get Tested For Sleep Apnea?
If you snore loudly every night, experience excessive daytime fatigue, or frequently wake up gasping for air, consider sleep apnea testing. If your partner complains about your loud and persistent snoring, take it seriously. Additionally, if you're overweight, have a family history of sleep apnea, or suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease, consider testing as these factors increase your risk.
Are you frequently waking up with headaches, dry mouth, or a sore throat? Don't ignore struggling to stay awake while driving, feeling irritable, or having difficulty concentrating. If you've tried lifestyle changes like losing weight or adjusting your sleep position with no improvement, consult Tan Head and Neck Center.
Our primary care physician can guide you on the right path. They may recommend a sleep study, which can be conducted at a sleep center or in the comfort of your home. Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea in Long Beach, CA, can significantly improve your quality of life, reduce health risks, and help you sleep soundly through the night.
Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of sleep apnea typically begins with a thorough evaluation by our ENT. A definitive diagnosis often requires a sleep study conducted at a sleep center or home with portable monitoring devices.
Sleep apnea treatment options aim to improve breathing and alleviate symptoms. Lifestyle changes, weight loss, positional therapy, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime may be beneficial. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, involving a mask that delivers pressurized air to keep airways open, is the most common medical treatment.
Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. If you or a loved one suspects sleep apnea in Long Beach, CA, don't delay seeking professional medical evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve sleep quality and overall health. To book an appointment with Dr. Jesse Tan, Dr. Jesus Tan, and Dr. Eapen at Tan Head and Neck Center, call (562) 988-8818.