A potentially serious disorder, sleep apnea is characterized by repeated stops and starts in breathing during sleep that cause the sufferer to wake. This can happen 20 or 30 times an hour, resulting in significant sleep loss and preventing deep, restful sleep. Most people don't even remember waking up. There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive and central.
Obstructive sleep apnea is more common and found twice as often in men than women. Throat tissues obstruct the airway, and the airway narrows or closes and breathing momentarily stops. The person wakes briefly, may snort or gasp, and then begins breathing normally again. Snoring is often a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea.
Central sleep apnea is less common and occurs when the brain doesn't send the right signals to the muscles that control breathing. Some people have complex sleep apnea, a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apneas.
Treatment for sleep apnea may involve surgery to clear blocked nasal passages or using a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device. This machine delivers air pressure through a mask placed over your nose while you sleep, and can be prescribed for home use. Proper use of a CPAP machine is crucial for its effectiveness.
Sleep Disorders Center Henry Ford operates one of the nation's largest and most comprehensive centers ...
Process to be Seen by a Sleep Specialist The following steps should be taken to be seen by a sleep specialist ...
Sleep Apnea Get help at the Henry Ford Sleep Disorders Center ...
Types of Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea Treatments
Founded in 1978 and located in Detroit Michigan, we are one of the oldest sleep centers in the nation and are considered among the leading sleep laboratories in the world. We consistently rank as one of the nation's top research facilities for the scientific study of sleep. We have extensive experience and knowledge in sleep research, and we treat more than 1,200 patients per year.
