What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder that causes loud snoring, disrupted breathing, and persistent fatigue—even after getting a full night’s rest. It occurs when your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, reducing oxygen flow to your body and brain.
There are two primary types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Caused by blockages in the airway, typically from soft tissue in the back of the throat.
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Occurs when your brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Sleep apnea can lead to serious complications, including high blood pressure, depression, liver problems, and an increased risk of heart disease. People with sleep apnea often wake up gasping for air or feel extremely tired throughout the day despite sleeping for hours.
How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
Most people start their journey toward diagnosis at their primary care physician’s office. If your doctor suspects sleep apnea, they may refer you for a sleep study, which measures:
- Brain and heart activity
- Muscle activity related to breathing
- Blood oxygen levels
- Breathing patterns
There are two main types of sleep studies:
- In-lab polysomnography: Performed at a sleep center and supervised by professionals.
- At-home sleep study kits: More affordable and convenient, but still require physician approval.
Can My PCP Diagnose Sleep Apnea?
Yes. Primary care physicians often conduct the initial assessment, review your symptoms, and order at-home sleep studies or refer you to a sleep specialist if needed. At Passion Health Primary Care, we offer initial evaluations and ongoing management for suspected sleep apnea.
How is Sleep Apnea Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition:
- Mild Sleep Apnea: Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, quitting smoking, and changing sleep positions can help.
- Moderate to Severe Sleep Apnea: Treatment may include:
- CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines
- Dental devices to keep the throat open
- Surgery in extreme cases
Important Note: Passion Health Primary Care does not provide CPAP therapy or surgical treatment, but our providers can guide you through diagnosis, offer lifestyle recommendations, and refer you to trusted sleep specialists.
Types of Doctors Who Treat Sleep Apnea
- Primary Care Physician (PCP): For initial screenings, risk assessments, and referrals
- Pulmonologists: Specialize in breathing disorders and may manage moderate to severe cases
- Sleep Specialists: Conduct sleep studies and develop treatment plans
- ENT Doctors: Evaluate structural causes like nasal blockages or tonsils
- Dentists with Sleep Medicine Training: Fit oral appliances for mild cases
Conclusion: When to Talk to Your Doctor
If you or a loved one experiences loud snoring, daytime drowsiness, or difficulty staying asleep, it’s time to talk to your primary care provider. At Passion Health Primary Care, our team offers initial assessments and ongoing support to help you manage sleep-related health concerns. While we don’t offer CPAP or surgical solutions, we’ll guide you to the best next step in your care journey.
FAQs About Sleep Apnea
Q1: Can my primary care doctor help with sleep apnea?
Yes. A PCP can assess your risk, order sleep studies, and refer you to the appropriate specialists for treatment.
Q2: Is sleep apnea dangerous?
Yes. It increases the risk of heart problems, stroke, diabetes, and daytime accidents due to fatigue.
Q3: What are the warning signs of sleep apnea?
Loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and irritability.
Q4: Can children have sleep apnea?
Yes, especially if they have enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Pediatricians typically evaluate those cases.
Q5: How do I prepare for a sleep study?
Avoid caffeine and alcohol, follow your normal routine, and bring comfortable sleepwear if going to a lab.
