What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening condition that causes your breathing to repeatedly stop and start as you sleep. There are two main types of sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea
The most common of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax as you sleep. As the muscles relax, the airway narrows, preventing you from breathing properly.
Central sleep apnea
The second type of sleep apnea is central sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain fails to send signals to control your breathing muscles as you sleep. Sleep apnea reduces the level of oxygen in your blood and can increase stress to your cardiovascular system.
A sleep apnea diagnosis takes place through a sleep study, which is an examination that monitors your health as you sleep.
What is insomnia?
Insomnia is a condition that refers to disruptions to your normal sleeping patterns. Patients with insomnia may experience:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Waking up too early
- Difficulty falling back asleep after disruptions
Acute or short term insomnia is normal and is usually the result of stress or a traumatic event. If you experience insomnia that lasts for a month or more, ECCA can help you determine the cause of your condition and the best way to restore your sleep health.
A number of factors can contribute to insomnia, including:
- Anxiety
- Lack of activity
- Chronic pain
- Mental health disorders
- Medications
Although insomnia can affect anyone, women and adults over 60 are at the highest risk. If you experience insomnia, ECCA provides home sleep tests to help diagnose sleep disorders.
What is home testing for sleep apnea and insomnia?
A home sleep test is a simple evaluation that identifies sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia. A home sleep test allows you to undergo evaluations of your sleep health in the comfort of your home.
Home testing for sleep apnea and insomnia uses a device that monitors your breathing, oxygen levels, and breathing effort. A home sleep test provides your ECCA doctor with essential information about your sleep health and breathing patterns.
Once the test is complete, your doctor uses your results to determine your diagnosis and the best treatment for your condition. If left untreated, issues like sleep apnea and insomnia can increase your risk for accidents, injuries, and heart disease.
To find out if home testing for sleep apnea or insomnia is right for you, call ECCA or book an appointment online today.
