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Robb Rose
Robb Rose is Director of Marketing Operations at Wesley Rehabilitation Hospital of Wichita. Robb is also a Respiratory Therapist, Boarded Disability Analyst and Adjunct Faculty for Wichita Sate University. He holds a Masters in Human Resources from Webster University. Robb serves on the American Lung Association Regional Council and the American Heart Association Board of Directors. Robb is married and has 2 children. He can be reached at (316) 729-9999
Health & Rehabilitation
2004-03-01 16:16:00
What is ‘Sleep Apnea’?
ANSWER:  The cessation of breathing that you describe sounds like sleep apnea. The snoring, and daytime sleepiness, and even forgetfulness sound like the results of sleep deprivation caused by the apnea. The Greek word "Apnea" literally means "without breath". Risk factors for sleep apnea include; being male, overweight, and over the age of 40. Females, and even children can be at risk though. Symptoms other than snoring can include decreased ability to concentrate, think critically, and communicate effectively.Side effects of undiagnosed and untreated sleep apnea can include; high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, kidney disease, diabetes, heart failure, Parkinson's, and even Alzheimer's. The reason is related to decreased oxygen to major body systems due to cessation of breathing (i.e. apnea). The apnea spells are caused by actual blockages of the airway, central or neurological issues related to breathing, or a combination of both.  Medical literature agrees that U.S. obstructive apnea problems cost over $150 billion dollars per year. The National Institute of Health estimates that less than 10% of all sleep apnea is being treated.To diagnose and effectively treat this disease a person can be scheduled for a Sleep Lab visit to diagnose the apnea, what kind, as well as severity. Once diagnosed a number of options exist. Some of the options are life style changes such as weight loss. Other options include surgical interventions. The current standard of care though is CPAP, which stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It is a prescribed device that creates an airway splint keeping the airway open during sleep. When choosing a Diagnostic Sleep Lab it is very important to go to a lab that is Accredited or is currently being Accredited by the American Association of Sleep Medicine and has Boarded Sleep Physicians on the staff, as well as credentialed sleep technologists. This provides for a standardized diagnostic and treatment outcome, and is being required by major insurance companies.
 
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