Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea

Snoring.
Waking in the morning not feeling rested.
Extreme fatigue throughout the day.

These symptoms can often point to a more serious condition called sleep apnea. When left untreated, sleep apnea can be far more serious than a simple annoyance. Increased risks of high blood pressure, heart disease and even cardiac death during sleep are just a few of the major medical consequences that are associated with untreated sleep apnea.

Ranging from children through the elderly, sleep apnea affects an estimated 22 million people in the United States. However, diagnosis and even treatment are not difficult. A simple consultation with a trained sleep specialist, along with an easy-to-use screening tool could have someone suffering from sleep apnea on their way to a good night’s rest easily and conveniently.

The first step to diagnosing sleep apnea begins by answering with honesty the following questions. It is important that you view this simple test as important to your health. In fact, if you are truly seeking help, this is one test you may want to flunk!

Simply tally your points and compare them to the scoring section at the end of this section.

      • How many nights per week do you snore?
        None  (0 points)
        1-2 (1 point)
        3 or more (2 points)
      • Is your snoring loud enough that it can be heard in the next room?
        No  (0 points)
        Yes (2 points)
      •  Have you ever been told that you stopped breathing or gasp for air during sleep?
        Never (0 points)
        Occasionally (3 points)
        Frequently (5 points)
      • What is your collar size?
        Men:
        Less than 17 inches (0 points)
        Greater than 17 inches (5 points)
        Women:
        Less than 16 inches (0 points)
        Greater than 16 inches (5 points)
      • Do you have high blood pressure (or are being treated through diet or medication for it)?
        No (0 points)
        Yes (2 points)
      • At times of inactivity during the day, do you ever doze?
        No (0 points)
        Yes (2 points)
      • Have you ever fallen asleep when you are driving or stopped at a light?
        No (0 points)
        Yes (2 points)

Scoring:
9 points or more: You are a good candidate for a sleep study
6-8 points: It is possible that you have sleep apnea. You should discuss this with a certified sleep specialist and determine a course of action based on additional medical history
5 points or lower: Low probability of sleep apnea

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