Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for maintaining our overall health and well-being. Yet, millions of individuals struggle with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a serious sleep disorder that disrupts their rest and impacts their daily lives. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of seeing a sleep snoring specialist near Falls Church and discuss the diagnosis and testing procedures for OSA.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, causing a temporary blockage of the airway. This results in repeated episodes of interrupted breathing, often accompanied by loud snoring or choking sounds.
Consequently, these disruptions can lead to fragmented sleep, leaving sufferers feeling tired and unrefreshed in the morning.
Recognizing the Symptoms of OSA
Identifying the symptoms of OSA is the first step towards diagnosis. Common signs include loud and chronic snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating.
Some individuals may also experience morning headaches, irritability, and a sore throat upon waking. If you or a loved one exhibit these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek a sleep snoring specialist near Falls Church.
A Sleep Snoring Specialist Near Falls Church May Use These Diagnostic Tools
In some cases, a sleep snoring specialist near Falls Church will conduct exams to better assess your airways. They may include:
Fiberoptic Nasolaryngoscopy
Fiberoptic nasolaryngoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the upper airway, including the nose, throat, and vocal cords. It involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached through the nostril and into the nasal passage, providing a visual assessment of any abnormalities or obstructions in the airway.
This procedure can be helpful in diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) as it allows doctors to see any physical obstructions that may contribute to breathing disruptions during sleep.
What’s more, the test is typically done in an outpatient setting and does not require anesthesia.
Drug Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE)
Drug Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) is another diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the upper airway in individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It involves administering mild sedation or anesthesia while the patient is asleep, allowing doctors to observe and record any obstructions or abnormalities in the airway.
Subsequently, this procedure can provide valuable information for identifying potential treatment options, such as surgery, for those with OSA who have not responded well to other treatments.
Take the Next Step!
Ready to take the next step? If so, please call our office to schedule an appointment with one of our top-notch sleep snoring specialists!