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Sleep Apnea Center
Rice Memorial Hospital
has a 2 bed sleep apnea center. Sleep apnea testing is provided only by
physician referral. Testing is performed in cases of suspected obstructive
sleep apnea.
Some warning signs
of sleep apnea may include:
- Excessive daytime
sleepiness
- Loud snoring
- Irritability at
work or home
- Overweight (large
neck size)
- Awakening suddenly
at night with choking sensation
- Morning headaches
- Falling asleep
at inappropriate times
- Difficulty concentrating
Avoiding Sleep Apnea
There are some general
guidelines which can help relieve the symptoms of apnea.
Some of these include:
- Losing weight
- Avoiding caffeine
and alcohol
- Avoid smoking and
sleeping pills
- Using medications
to relieve nasal congestion
Specific Treatments
One of the most highly
effective treatments for obstructive sleep apnea is the use of continuous
positive airway pressure (CPAP), a mask worn over the nose during sleep.
Pressure from an air compressor forces air through the nasal passages
and into the airway. This pressure holds the airway open and allows the
person to breathe normally.
Surgical procedures
may also be effective in removing excess tissue from the throat.
Symptoms and treatment
methods can vary depending on the severity of the condition. The patient
should check with his or her physician about the cause, diagnosis, and
treatment for their particular case.
The Medical Director
of the Sleep Apnea lab is:
Patricia D'Aquila, MD
Affiliated Community Medical
Center
For
more information please call:
Respiratory
Care Diagnostics
320.231.4260
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