Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a common disorder involving a collapse of the upper airway during sleep that is characterized by snoring, choking, and gasping. Dr. Leeman and his team at The Comprehensive ENT Center of Texas work to identify the cause of the obstruction and offer the best treatment method available. In children, the most common cause for Obstructive Sleep Apnea is enlarged tonsils and/or adenoids. In most cases, Dr. Leeman will perform a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy as the first line treatment.

In adults, many factors can lead to obstruction of the airway, including abnormalities in the anatomical structure of the upper airway, excess weight, a large neck or recessed chin, smoking, and alcohol use. Older adults have an increased risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea. To alleviate the airway obstruction, Dr. Leeman may initially recommend a lifestyle change such as weight loss or avoidance of alcohol. Other treatment methods include the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device or a surgical procedure to enlarge the upper airway.

Nearly 80% of individuals with Obstructive Sleep Apnea are undiagnosed. Left untreated, Obstructive Sleep Apnea may lead to:

  • Daytime fatigue
  • Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
  • Weight gain
  • Problems with attention and memory
  • Headaches
  • Depression
  • Impotency
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Sleep Disorders