Sleep Apnea Testing
& Treatment

Central Virginia Sleep Center in Fredericksburg, VA, offers sleep studies that can help diagnose and treat sleep apnea. We have been helping the members of our Virginia community sleep better for over twelve years. 

Are you tired during the day with no explanation? Do you snore noisily or wake up gasping in the middle of the night? If you're experiencing any of these signs, you may be one of more than 12 million Americans who are afflicted with sleep apnea.
Male with Lack of Sleep — Fredericksburg, VA — Central Virginia Sleep Center

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person's breathing stops periodically during sleep, as much as 20-30 times every hour. Every time you stop breathing in your sleep, the resulting loss of oxygen signals your brain, which briefly wakes you up to restart proper breathing. Since the time spent awake is so small, most people with sleep apnea don't recognize it, and many think they are getting a good night's sleep when, in fact, they are not. The continuous wake-sleep cycle stops those with sleep apnea from reaching deep sleep, resulting in a constant drowsy feeling during the day.
Man Snoring and Woman Can't Sleep — Fredericksburg, VA — Central Virginia Sleep Center

The Signs Of Sleep Apnea

The following symptoms can mean you could have sleep apnea. If you have experienced one or more of these, contact our office.
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Loud snoring 
  • Waking up at night feeling short of breath
  • Choking sounds during the night (the restart of breathing)
  • Headaches when you first wake up 
  • Falling asleep involuntarily during the day
  • Extreme drowsiness during the day

What Are The Risk Factors For Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is more prevalent in males than females and more constant in adults over forty than in younger adults and children. However, anyone of any age or gender can suffer from sleep apnea. Other risk factors include smoking, drinking, obesity, use of sedatives, and family history. 

Is Sleep Apnea Dangerous?

Sleep apnea is a severe medical problem, and if left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure, raising the risk of heart failure and stroke. The continuous state of fatigue created by sleep apnea can lead to problems at school or work, as well as a safety hazard when driving or operating heavy machinery. Sleep apnea also causes complications with medications or surgery; sedation by anesthesia can be unsafe, as can lying flat after an operation. If you know or think you might be suffering from sleep apnea, contact us today. 

How Do You Treat Sleep Apnea?

Our treatments for sleep apnea depend on the severity of each specific case, and the type of apnea. Some suggestions could include weight loss, quit smoking, or sleep on your side instead of your back. Beyond that, we offer high-quality oral devices to position the mouth to prevent throat blockage. In critical cases, surgery might be necessary. 
Contact us today at 540-656-2811 if you feel like you or your loved one might have sleep apnea. We will be happy to answer any questions you have, and we can schedule you for a sleep study.
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