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If you're one of the estimated 18 million adults in the United States who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), then you know how frustrating it can be to get a good night's sleep. Aside from the often uncomfortable symptoms associated with OSA, such as difficulty breathing, snoring, and feeling tired during the day, people with OSA may also face more serious complications like high blood pressure and impaired glucose tolerance. Luckily, there are ways to keep your symptoms under control through proper diet and exercise—two key components that have been scientifically proven to reduce the effects of obstructive sleep apnea, along with properly managing diabetes if present. You are welcome to visit our office to discuss your sleep apnea treatment options . In this blog post, we'll take an in-depth look at what these factors involve and how they can help patients maintain better overall health while managing their condition. What is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)? Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by repeated episodes of breathing cessation during sleep, which leads to a decrease in blood oxygen levels and interrupted sleep. The effects of OSA go well beyond just feeling tired during the day; it is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and stroke. OSA can be caused by a variety of factors, including obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and even genetics. If left untreated, OSA can have a serious impact on a person's quality of life. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available, such as oral appliance therapy and lifestyle changes, that can help manage the symptoms of OSA and improve overall health. Book an appointment to come into our office in St. Louis to discuss your treatment options with Dr. Lillenberg; we’re happy to help! How Can Diet, Exercise, and Diabetes Affect Obstructive Sleep Apnea? Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the significant risk factors associated with this condition is obesity, which can be managed through a healthy diet and exercise. Studies have shown that losing weight can improve the severity of obstructive sleep apnea, as excess weight can contribute to soft tissue collapsing in the throat and causing blockages during sleep. Furthermore, diabetes can also affect one's risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, affecting the muscles that control breathing. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, individuals with diabetes can manage their blood sugar levels and potentially decrease their likelihood of developing obstructive sleep apnea. Hence, adopting healthy habits such as a balanced diet and regular exercise can have a positive impact on one's overall health and may reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnea. Diet If you suffer from sleep apnea, you know the importance of a good night's rest. One way to improve your sleep is by making dietary changes. Certain foods can exacerbate the condition, while others can help alleviate symptoms. Avoiding heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bed can all help reduce the risk of blockages in the airway. Instead, opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods contain important vitamins and minerals that can help promote healthy sleep patterns. Additionally, incorporating foods high in magnesium, such as spinach and almonds, can help relax the muscles in the airway, reducing the risk of obstruction. By making simple changes to your diet, you can help manage your sleep apnea and wake up feeling refreshed each morning. Exercise Exercise is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle, and it's important to choose the right type of exercise to reap the maximum benefits. For individuals with OSA, certain forms of exercise can be particularly advantageous. Aerobic exercises such as cycling, walking, and swimming are great options, as they can help improve cardiorespiratory fitness and aid in weight management. Resistance training, such as weightlifting, can also be beneficial as it helps improve muscle strength and can lead to improved sleep quality. Practicing yoga or Pilates can help improve flexibility, which can reduce the risk of injury and improve overall physical function. Regardless of the type of exercise one chooses, it's important to always start slowly and gradually increase the intensity over time for maximum benefit. Managing diabetes For people with diabetes, managing their condition is crucial to maintaining their health. However, studies have shown that managing diabetes can also help reduce the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a breathing disorder where the airway collapses during sleep, causing disruptions in breathing and poor sleep quality. Diabetes can worsen OSA symptoms by promoting inflammation and reducing muscle tone in the airway. By controlling their blood sugar levels and maintaining a healthy weight, people with diabetes can improve their OSA symptoms and overall sleep quality. Effective management of diabetes can also lead to other health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Get treated today! Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious health disorder that needs to be managed with consistent lifestyle changes. Taking control of your diet and exercise, as well as managing diabetes, can all influence the severity of OSA symptoms. It can be intimidating to make these health-related changes, but keep in mind that even small adjustments can make a big difference - taking a few extra steps each day or avoiding trigger foods could elevate your quality of life significantly. Make sure to speak with our physician about any symptom management questions or for more information on OSA-related topics. And if you're looking for a more holistic approach to managing OSA in particular, consider booking an appointment for a consultation with us here at Sleep Well St. Louis, where we specialize in sleep apnea treatment. Call us today!

Obstructive sleep apnea: aging, cognitive decline, and memory loss If you or a loved one suffers from obstructive sleep apnea, then it's likely that you are aware of the profound effect this condition can have on one's health, and the serious consequences associated with its long-term effects. Unfortunately, those consequences grow increasingly serious as we age; OSA is linked to cognitive decline, accelerated aging, and memory loss in elderly individuals. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common yet serious sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. OSA can lead to fragmented sleep and low oxygen levels in the blood, which in turn, can have negative effects on cognitive function, memory, and overall health. Studies have shown that individuals with untreated OSA are at a higher risk of developing memory loss, cognitive decline, and accelerated aging. Treating OSA not only improves sleep quality but also lessens the risk of these harmful outcomes. It is important to seek medical attention and find the appropriate treatment for OSA to maintain good health and vitality. Failure to address OSA could have lasting effects on an individual's quality of life. Feel free to contact us and speak with Dr. Lillenberg about sleep apnea treatments. In this blog post, we will explore how obstructive sleep apnea affects people of all ages, including the elderly, and discuss strategies for prevention and treatment to help mitigate these symptoms. Obstructive sleep apnea and its common effects. Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects many people worldwide. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing that last from a few seconds to a few minutes. These pauses, also known as apneas, can happen multiple times throughout the night, which can cause disruptions in the normal sleep pattern. Not only does this result in daytime fatigue, but it can also contribute to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. In addition, obstructive sleep apnea has been known to impact mood, memory, and cognitive abilities. It's important to recognize the common signs and symptoms, such as loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness, in order to seek treatment and improve overall health and quality of life. Come in and speak with Dr. Lillenberg about your symtoms so we can start your sleep apnea treatment right away! The link between aging and OSA. As we age, our bodies go through a multitude of changes, including changes in our sleep patterns. Unfortunately, aging can increase the risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when the airway is partially or completely blocked during sleep, causing breathing to stop and start. As we get older, our muscles lose tone and our airways become more collapsible, which increases the likelihood of experiencing interruptions in breathing. In addition, factors such as weight gain, smoking, and underlying medical conditions can also contribute to the development of OSA. It's important for older adults to be aware of the link between aging and OSA and to seek medical attention if they suspect they may be experiencing symptoms. The cognitive decline associated with OSA Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes individuals to experience pauses in their breathing during sleep, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the brain. This reduction in oxygen can take a toll on the cognitive functions of the brain, such as memory, decision-making, and mental sharpness. Studies have also shown that people with OSA often have decreased gray matter in areas of the brain responsible for these functions. It is essential to be aware of the long-term consequences of OSA on cognitive decline and seek medical treatment if necessary. Early detection and intervention can help prevent or slow down the cognitive decline associated with OSA. OSA and memory loss Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA for short, is a disruptive sleep disorder that can have serious consequences if left untreated. One of the most alarming of these consequences is memory loss. Individuals with OSA experience multiple pauses in breathing throughout the night, which leads to reduced oxygen supply to the brain. This lack of oxygen can cause damage to the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for memory storage and retrieval. As a result, people with OSA may struggle to remember important information like appointments, names, and events. It's important to seek treatment for OSA as soon as possible to prevent further memory loss and other health complications. Ways to reduce the risk of developing OSA. One of the major risk factors for OSA is obesity, so maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing the condition. Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and sedatives can also help prevent the relaxation of the throat muscles that contributes to OSA. Additionally, practicing good sleep hygiene by maintaining a regular sleep schedule and sleeping on your side can also reduce the risk of developing OSA. Taking these preventative measures can not only reduce the risk of OAS but also lead to better overall health and well-being. The importance of treating OSA It is clear that obstructive sleep apnea can have a huge impact on cognitive decline and memory loss. It also puts us at risk of suffering from more serious health problems, such as hypertension and stroke. OSA can therefore have a determinant effect on our overall health and wellbeing. Thankfully, with regular visits to our office Sleep Well St. Louis located in St. Louis, you can reduce the risk of developing these issues in the first place. We will be able to provide further treatment options or recommend lifestyle changes that may help lower the risks associated with this sleep disorder. By taking proper preventive measures, you can ensure that you remain healthy over the long-term by reducing your risk of developing OSA and its associated health effects, such as accelerated aging and memory loss. So don’t delay; book a consultation with us today to learn more about sleep apnea treatment!

How obstructive sleep apnea impacts your mental health: Do you feel well rested? One of the worst parts of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is that it can take a toll on your overall mental health and well-being. Whether you are battling feelings of depression and anxiety or feel constantly exhausted no matter how many hours you spend sleeping, OSA can dramatically affect your quality of life. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can significantly affect an individual's mental health, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, and exhaustion. Studies have found that individuals with this condition are more likely to develop depression and anxiety than those without it. Common symptoms of OSA include loud snoring, episodes of not breathing while sleeping, waking up with a dry mouth, difficulty concentrating, daily headaches, and emotional fluctuations. An oral appliance is an effective treatment option for individuals with mild or moderate obstructive sleep apnea, as it keeps the airway open and prevents breathing disruption. It is important to take the necessary steps to treat OSA in order to improve one’s quality of life. You are welcome to book a consultation to speak with us about treating your sleep apnea. In this blog post, we'll discuss the links between OSA, anxiety, and depression, as well as steps we can take to ensure proper treatment for our mental health. Obstructive sleep apnea and its effects on mental health The effects of sleep apnea on the brain are significant; they change the brain's chemical composition and structural makeup, impairing cognitive function and resulting in feelings of fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. This has an impact on your day-to-day activities, makes it more difficult to think clearly, and causes memory issues. It is not unexpected that sleep apnea might result in stress. The body and the brain go into a stress response when you continually wake up during the night feeling like you're choking or can't breathe. This may develop into a conditioned response and have an impact on many aspects of your life. Daytime sleepiness and irritation cause challenges at work, difficulty concentrating, and relationship tension. As your life swings out of your control, you're likely to experience anxiety. Studies have found that individuals with this condition are up to five times more likely to develop depression and up to twenty times more likely to develop anxiety than those without it. Therefore, it is crucial for those experiencing symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea to seek treatment from a medical professional to prevent further negative effects on their mental health. The link between anxiety, depression, and sleep apnea Anxiety, depression, and sleep apnea are three distinct disorders that can significantly affect an individual's quality of life. However, recent research suggests that there may be a link between these conditions. Studies indicate that people who suffer from anxiety and depression may be at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea, and conversely, individuals with sleep apnea may also be more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression. While the exact cause of this connection is not fully understood, it is thought that disruptions in the body's natural sleep cycle may play a role. By better understanding the relationship between anxiety, depression, and sleep apnea, healthcare professionals can provide more effective treatment options and improve overall patient outcomes. The symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects many individuals worldwide. People who suffer from this condition experience a blocked airway that leads to pauses in breathing while they sleep. Common symptoms include: Loud snoring. Episodes of not breathing while sleeping Gasping for air during sleep Waking up with a dry mouth Inability to sleep well, and excessive daytime drowsiness. Daily headache Difficulty with focus throughout the day Fluctuations in emotion like depression or anger Decreased libido High blood pressure. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, it's important to consult with Dr. Lilleenberg at our office in St. Louis as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the quality of life and overall health. Oral appliance treatment for obstructive sleep apnea Obstructive sleep apnea can seriously affect the quality of your sleep and your overall health. This condition involves the obstruction of your airway, which results in interrupted breathing during sleep. An oral appliance is an effective treatment option for individuals with mild or moderate obstructive sleep apnea. This device keeps the airway open, preventing breathing disruption while asleep. Oral appliances are custom-made to fit your mouth and are comfortable to wear, unlike the traditional Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. It is a non-invasive and convenient treatment option that can improve your sleep, alleviate snoring, and prevent any serious health issues. Consult with Dr. Lillenberg at is office in St Louis to know if an oral appliance is suitable for you. Your mental health is your wealth! Sleep is necessary for your mental and physical health, but sleep apnea can be an obstacle to getting adequate rest. Without taking the necessary steps to treat it, obstructive sleep apnea can cause long-term problems with your mental and physical health. Although it is admittedly difficult to make lifestyle changes to mitigate the symptoms of OSA, those who do so make great strides in improving their quality of life. All in all, obstructive sleep apnea impacts not only your physical health but can also greatly damage your mental well-being if left untreated. If you’re experiencing symptoms of OSA or suspect that you may have it, make sure to get yourself checked and taken care of. Book a consultation today and speak with us about treatment options for sleep apnea!

Obstructive Sleep Apnea and heart disease-Untreated severe OSA has significant co-morbidity Are you among the millions of people struggling with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)? The unfortunate truth is that untreated OSA has significant comorbidity with many severe medical conditions, including heart disease. That’s why it’s so important to understand how your sleep pattern and lifestyle lead to a host of cardiac problems. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has numerous symptoms, such as drowsiness during the day, loud snoring, and sudden awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking. A comprehensive evaluation by a health care provider or sleep specialist is necessary to diagnose OSA. It is important to seek appropriate treatment to reduce the risk of developing associated co-morbidities and improve the overall quality of life. In this post, we dig a little deeper into OSA, its effect on the heart, and co-morbidity. What is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and how does it affect your heart health? Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep disorder that affects your breathing while you sleep. Imagine trying to inhale through a straw; that's what it's like for people with OSA. Their airways become partially or completely blocked, causing them to snore, choke, or gasp for air throughout the night. But OSA doesn't stop there; it can also negatively impact your heart health. When you stop breathing, even for short periods, your oxygen levels drop, which can lead to spikes in blood pressure and an irregular heartbeat. Over time, these recurring events can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. If you suspect that you or someone you love may be suffering from OSA, come into our office in St. Louis and speak to Dr. Lillenberg about your symptoms and discuss your sleep apnea treatment options . What are the symptoms of OSA, and how can you diagnose it? Obstructive sleep apnea is the most prevalent form of sleep apnea. Its signs and symptoms include: Extreme drowsiness during the day. Loud snoring Observed instances of breathing stopping while sleeping. Waking up suddenly, accompanied by gasping or choking Having a sore throat or dry mouth when you wake up Daily headache Concentration issues during the day Mood swings like depression or anger High blood pressure Lowered libido If you suspect that you have OSA, it's important to see our healthcare provider, Dr. Lilienberg. While we do not conduct sleep studies, we work with a network of sleep specialists that can help you. They’ll conduct their sleep studies to determine if you have OSA and to what degree. A thorough physical examination will typically be conducted to check for any physical abnormalities that could be causing sleep apnea symptoms. This data is collected to determine the frequency and severity of breathing disruptions during sleep. The Link Between OSA and Heart Disease Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes repeated breathing interruptions during sleep, which in turn can lead to a reduction of oxygen to the body's vital organs. Over time, this lack of oxygen can lead to some serious medical problems, including heart disease. Studies have shown that untreated severe OSA increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, stroke, heart failure, and arrhythmias. While there are many factors that can trigger heart disease, OSA is considered one of the primary culprits. Studies have found that individuals with OSA are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, myocardial infarction (heart attack), heart failure, and sudden death. It is believed that the connection between OSA and heart disease can be attributed to various mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and activation of the sympathetic nervous system. Additionally, many people with untreated OSA have underlying conditions that can further increase their heart disease risk, such as diabetes and obesity. Untreated severe OSA and significant co-morbidity Untreated severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has significant co-morbidity, which refers to the presence of additional medical conditions that worsen the effects of OSA. OSA-related oxygen desaturation and arousals trigger inflammatory responses in the body, increasing the likelihood of inflammation-related diseases like diabetes, depression, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Moreover, untreated sleep apnea has been linked to cognitive impairment, affecting attention, memory, and executive functioning. The impairment of these cognitive functions may lead to reduced quality of life, accidents, and increased healthcare utilization. People with untreated severe OSA are more prone to traffic and workplace accidents, putting both their own and others' lives in danger. Co-morbidity with OSA can lead to significant consequences, affecting not only the physical but also the psychological well-being of the individual. Therefore, seeking treatment for improving the OSA is crucial for reducing the risk of developing associated co-morbidities and improving the overall quality of life. Come into our office in St. Louis and discuss your sleep apnea treatment options . Get treated today! OSA can be effectively managed with proper treatment. Your treatment options may include the use of an oral appliance. It is essential for patients to seek appropriate treatment for OSA because it can improve their quality of life, reduce the risk of developing serious health problems, and prevent accidents and injuries associated with untreated OSA. We encourage patients who suspect they might have OSA to come in and book an appointment with us for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Don't wait until it's too late - contact us today and let us help you achieve the best sleep health possible.

Are you having trouble sleeping at night? Do you feel like no matter what you do, the pounds just keep creeping up, even though your diet and exercise regimen haven't changed? If so, then it’s possible that you may be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a condition in which your airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing pauses in breathing and reducing the amount of oxygen reaching your brain. Both short-term and long-term effects can include weight gain due to increased hunger caused by less restful sleep; this leads to metabolic syndrome, which has been linked with an elevated risk of developing cardiovascular disease. OSA can create a problematic cycle where weight gain triggers more sleep apnea and vice versa. Recognizing the signs of OSA is important, as they include excessive daytime sleepiness, snoring, awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat, and morning headaches. Regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding large meals before bed, quitting drinking and smoking, and reducing stress levels are all ways to help manage OSA and prevent weight gain. In this blog post, we will explore the link between OSA, weight gain, and metabolic syndrome in more detail. What is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)? Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition where there’s a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep due to an obstructed airway. People who suffer from OSA will have recurring pauses in their breathing when sleeping, which can last from several seconds to minutes. These pauses can occur hundreds of times throughout the night and often result in very fragmented and light sleep. In addition, those with OSA may also experience loud snoring due to their gasping for air throughout the night. It affects around 18 million people in the U.S., and research has indicated that it may be linked to weight gain, metabolic syndrome, and other serious medical problems such as stroke and heart disease. How OSA affects your body weight Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an increasingly common condition that can have serious long-term effects on your health. One of these effects, often overlooked, is the way it affects your body weight and metabolism. OSA can lead to a problematic cycle where weight gain triggers more sleep apnea, and sleep apnea causes further weight gain. OSA may also be a symptom of metabolic syndrome, which is a collection of health problems like high blood pressure and high cholesterol brought on by poor lifestyle choices or genetics. So if you're finding yourself gaining weight, even when following diet and exercise programs, it's important to speak with Dr. Lillenberg about your treatment options —it could save your life. What is metabolic syndrome and how is it related to OSA and weight gain? A metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors that can significantly increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. It also contributes to weight gain and is frequently associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The biological causes are intricately tied together; having an increased body mass index (BMI) places a higher strain on the heart, raising the risk for OSA due to a narrowed airway. Furthermore, OSA decreases respiration while sleeping, leading to reduced oxygen in the blood, which results in alterations to metabolism and hormonal changes influencing hunger and cravings. As this behavior continues and becomes a cycle, it’s easy to understand how metabolic syndrome and weight gain gradually become inevitable as time goes on. Unfortunately, this can lead to other medical issues beyond those associated with metabolic syndrome, but fortunately, there are ways you can break the cycle or prevent it from happening at all. How can you recognize the signs of OSA? Recognizing the signs of obstructive sleep apnea can be a tough task, but understanding the symptoms is half the battle. Pay attention to frequent shifts in breathing during sleep or lots of snoring; these two factors can be surefire indicators of OSA. Obstructive sleep apnea symptoms include: Excessive daytime sleepiness Snoring incessantly Abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking Awaking with a dry mouth or a sore throat Morning headache Trouble concentrating during the day High blood pressure lowered libido If you suspect you might have it, remember you can come and speak with Dr. Lillenberg; he will be able to provide the best treatment plan possible. Tips for managing your sleep apnea and preventing weight gain As we all know, OSA causes disrupted sleep, but it can also lead to weight gain if left untreated. To keep your OSA and weight in check, follow some simple principles, such as: Exercising frequently Maintain balanced diet Avoiding large meals before bed Quit drinking and smoking Avoid taking sleeping pills Avoid caffeine before bed Additionally, managing stress levels is also strongly linked to better sleep patterns. Working with your primary care doctor and Dr. Lillenberg on how to best manage this high-risk condition may be beneficial in minimizing the risk of both weight gain and sleep disruption. OSA is strongly related to weight gain, especially when combined with metabolic syndrome. If you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea, book a consultation to speak with Dr. Lillenberg today and get your treatment started on the path to better health. With his help, you can rest easy knowing that this condition will become more manageable and that you will remain healthy for years to come!

Obstructive sleep apnea is sleep-disturbed breathing—more than just snoring! Snoring is one of the most common sleep-related health issues; an estimated 2 in 5 adults snore. Snoring can be disruptive and frustrating, but it can also be an indicator that you may be suffering from another, far more serious sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea. A blockage in your airway is the root cause of this disorder, which causes your breathing to stop and start repeatedly while you sleep. These pauses can occur multiple times throughout the night, disrupting normal breathing patterns and resulting in daytime fatigue and an increased risk of life-threatening health complications. OSA symptoms include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, extreme daily fatigue, difficulties concentrating, and waking up with a headache. To help manage OSA symptoms, we advise oral appliance therapy in conjunction with lifestyle changes. In this blog, we will explore what causes OSA and some of its symptoms and complications, so you have a better understanding of how this disorder disrupts your everyday life. What exactly is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)? Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder in which an individual’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It occurs when the tissues that line the airways relax, blocking off oxygen to the lungs and leading to pauses in breathing throughout the night. Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include: Loud snoring Gasping or choking during sleep abnormally slow heart rate excessive daytime fatigue and Difficulty concentrating. Waking up with a dry mouth Headaches, especially when waking up. It is important to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea so that you can seek medical attention. Come in and speak with Dr. Lillenberg if you think you may be suffering from this condition. Understanding the risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea can aid in the diagnosis. Among the risk factors are: Family history of obstructive sleep apnea. A thick or large neck (greater than 16 inches for women and 17 inches for men) Persistent nasal congestion Thyroid disease or another endocrine problem Postmenopause Being obese Tissue damage in the tissues that support the head and neck Smoking Adenoids and tonsils that are swollen or enlarged (in children) A diagnosis usually begins with a medical history review and physical exam by a doctor. An overnight sleep study or an in-laboratory polysomnogram to accurately assess oxygen levels and the various stages of sleep may also be required. While Dr. Lillenberg does not conduct sleep studies, he works in conjunction with other healthcare professionals to help you get the care you need. There are three different types of obstructive sleep apnea: Mild Moderate Severe Mild OSA occurs when there are 5 to 15 episodes per hour and does not usually require treatment; if it happens more than 15 times per hour, then it is considered moderate OSA and will require therapy. Severe sleep apnea causes you to wake up 30 or more times each hour. That means they stop breathing and/or wake up 240 times or more over a complete eight hours of sleep. This can be life-threatening because it necessitates emergency medical intervention for the patient. Treatment options for OSA Treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is much more than finding a way to stop snoring; most OSA treatments involve the use of CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines to help keep the airways open at night. Unfortunately, CPAP usage can be uncomfortable for some people, which is why examining alternative CPAP options is important. Oral appliance therapy can be a great CPAP alternative that uses custom-made devices worn over the teeth during sleep, just like an orthodontic retainer or sports mouthguard. An oral device keeps your jaw forward to keep your airway clear. It can improve your quality of sleep, restore your alertness, and improve your health. A consultation with Dr. Lillenberg can help you determine whether oral appliance therapy is best for you or a loved one to treat obstructive sleep apnea. Lifestyle and home remedies to manage OSA symptoms Making lifestyle changes is one of the most effective ways to manage the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Even though it may take some time for these changes to have an effect, they are essential for sustained health. These include: Avoiding alcohol Avoiding sleeping pills Losing weight Quitting smoking Exercising regularly. Taking action with these lifestyle measures can make all the difference in managing OSA and leading a healthier life. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can be a daunting condition that presents a challenge to individuals in need of diagnosis and treatment. It's essential to seek medical advice to ensure appropriate treatment is prescribed. Ultimately, if you or someone you know is struggling with sleep disturbances due to OSA, come in and speak with Dr. Lillenberg about your treatment options.

A backup to CPAP is critical to keeping millions of families safe this winter, here’s why… Millions of homes across the United States, including thousands of homes in Utah, have one or more family members using a CPAP machine to treat their obstructive sleep apnea. Continuous positive airway pressure – or CPAP – machines are the most common treatment for sleep apnea patients. The device, which provides airflow at a constant pressure, holds the airway open while the person sleeps. It can be life-saving and it can significantly increase a patient’s quality of life. Consistent use of a CPAP can also add years to their life – and life to their years. The biggest danger with CPAP machines is actually NOT using them, but there is growing concern that the use of CPAP machines could become dangerous for families of users when they battle a contagious illness. Enter the coronavirus pandemic… According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM): “There is some concern that using CPAP could spread the virus through the exhalation port, which allows carbon dioxide to escape from your mask. This port also may release smaller virus-containing particles as an ‘aerosol,’ which can remain suspended in the air for a few hours. It’s possible that your bed partner could inhale these virus particles.” The American Society of Anesthesiologists issued guidance on February 23rd of this year discouraging CPAP use in COVID-19 patients. “However, again, CPAP machines are life-saving, and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is critical, especially with a number of studies now pointing to the likelihood of OSA contributing to poor outcomes for those infected with coronavirus,” says Dr. Lillenberg. There is a solution that doesn’t make patients choose between potentially life-saving therapy and keeping their families safe. If there is ANY sign of illness – coronavirus or otherwise, patients should talk to their physician about the possibility of switching to an oral appliance* as a backup.  Sleep apnea never takes a night off, and the treatment of it shouldn’t either. Please CLICK HERE or call 314-470-9926 to book your complimentary evaluation.

NEW STUDY SHOWS LESS THAN 6 HOURS OF QUALITY SLEEP LEADS TO THE CONDITION