Kim English with the Sleep Disorder Clinic at Scott & White Memorial Hospital will talk about obstructive sleep apnea at a “Lunch and Learn” 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday at Hearthstone Assisted Living in Temple.
Hearthstone is at 3002 Jack Rabbit Road in Temple. Lunch will be provided. Space is limited to 35 people. To register, call 778-2222.
Sleep apnea affects breathing in sleep. Apnea comes from a Greek word meaning “want of breath.” Not only is apnea a chronic health problem, it’s progressive, meaning it can get worse over time.
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most frequent condition seen at sleep centers. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by a blockage of the airway, usually when the soft tissue in the rear of the throat collapses and closes in sleep.
Ms. English said she will discuss the signs and symptoms of apnea.
Symptoms include:
-Snoring
-Holding your breath while sleeping (and a bed partner noticing those two things)
-Difficulty sleeping
-Daytime fatigue and sleepiness.
“Young people can have sleep apnea, but the older population is at increased risk for it,” Ms. English said.
If left untreated, sleep apnea can result in a growing number of health problems such as hypertension, stroke, heart failure, irregular heartbeats and heart attacks, she said.
Untreated sleep apnea may be responsible for job impairment and motor vehicle crashes, according to the American Sleep Apnea Association.
Fortunately, sleep apnea can be diagnosed and treated. Several treatment options exist, and research into additional options continues.
English said these types of programs help people become more familiar with the signs and symptoms of various health issues. The next one will feature information on chiropractic care on July 29.
Future programs will touch on heart health, positive crisis intervention and incontinence.
