Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious condition where the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing breathing interruptions. A sleep apnea doctor specializes in diagnosing this condition and creating effective treatment plans.
Signs You May Have Sleep Apnea
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Witnessed breathing pauses during sleep
- Gasping or choking upon waking
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability and mood changes
How We Diagnose Sleep Apnea
Dr. Patel uses a comprehensive approach including clinical evaluation and objective testing:
- In-lab polysomnography — gold standard sleep study
- Home sleep apnea testing — convenient at-home option
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to each patient's severity and preferences:
- CPAP therapy — first-line treatment for moderate to severe OSA
- Oral appliance therapy — a CPAP alternative for mild to moderate cases
- Weight management — lifestyle changes that can reduce severity
- Positional therapy — for patients with position-dependent apnea
- Surgical options — when conservative treatments aren't effective
Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Untreated OSA is linked to serious health consequences:
- Heart disease and stroke
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Depression and anxiety
- Motor vehicle accidents
Don't let sleep apnea go untreated. Call (512) 931-1575 to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Patel.
