Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a disorder in which normal breathing is interrupted during sleep due to the blockage of airflow in the upper airway. Most commonly sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of throat relax as we enter our more restful deep stages of sleep (Stage 3) or our dream state (REM) sleep. Obstructive Sleep Apnea affects approximately 18 million adults in the United States.
OSA causes persistently low levels of oxygen in the blood for a significant portion of the night. Sleep apnea forces the body to work harder to pump blood in order to oxygenate the brain and organs and leads to one of the most unrecognized causes of hypertension. Over many years, Obstructive Sleep Apnea can lead to uncontrolled weight gain, heart disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and depression. Dr. Salizzoni is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and provides Oral Appliance Therapy to treat obstructive sleep apnea. Am I a candidate for a Sleep Apnea Evaluation in NJ? Schedule your consultation today.