Could your sleep issues be the result of obstructive sleep apnea or a breathing disorder? 

Do you feel extremely exhausted first thing in the morning? Do you feel like you toss and turn most nights? Has your partner complained of your loud, unrelenting snoring? While many people just assume that snoring and feeling exhausted are just normal parts of being human, most of the time these symptoms tell our Greenville, TX, sleep specialist and pulmonologist Dr. Mohan Philip that something more is going on.

What are the warning signs of obstructive sleep apnea? 

Anyone can develop obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), including children, and unfortunately, it’s possible that as many as 90 percent of people with OSA don’t even know that they have it. The problem is that sleep apnea can increase your risk for serious health problems such as heart attack or stroke, which is why it’s important to see your Greenville, TX, sleep specialist if you are experiencing any of the warning sign of sleep apnea,

• Loud, disruptive snoring
• Insomnia or restless sleep
• Extreme daytime fatigue
• Falling asleep during the day
• Morning headaches
• Grogginess and brain fog
• Trouble concentrating
• Mood swings

Who is at risk for sleep apnea? 

It’s important to recognize the risk factors for sleep apnea so that you can continue to monitor any changes or problems with sleep that could be a sign of sleep apnea. You may be more at risk for obstructive sleep apnea if,

• You have a family history of snoring or sleep apnea
• You’re male
• You are overweight or obese
• You smoke
• You have a deviated septum
• You take sedatives to help with sleep

How can a pulmonologist help? 

It should come as no surprise to discover that a pulmonologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating and preventing conditions that affect the respiratory system, can also address sleep apnea and breathing disorders such as asthma and COPD, which can also increase your risk for sleep apnea. A pulmonologist can treat underlying respiratory problems that could be contributing to their sleep apnea, while also providing treatment for sleep apnea symptoms.

If you are experiencing issues with sleep and have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or COPD know that our Greenville, TX, pulmonary specialist can provide you with an effective treatment plan to help you get better sleep. Call Greenville Pulmonary Associates at (903) 454-9976 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mohan Philip.