Sleep Apnea and Pain

June 19, 2019 Dr. Mayhar Okhovat No Comments

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a disorder that can be potentially serious if not treated correctly. The National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research estimated that OSA affects 7-18 million people in the United States.

When the muscles in the back of your throat relax while sleeping, the airway in your throat gets narrower, resulting in a lack of oxygen reaching your lungs. The snoring associated with sleep apnea is also a result of the blockage, which restricts the airflow. The decreased oxygen can potentially increase your risk for strokes and heart attacks.

If you’ve been told multiple times that your snoring is overwhelming, that you’ve stopped breathing while sleeping, or have woken up from choking in your sleep, you may have this disorder. If you find yourself dozing off while at work, sitting in traffic, or watching T.V, take action now to prevent further problems.

To be sure, take the quick assessment below and make an appointment with Dr. Okhovat to discuss if further testing needs to be done at the comfort of your own home:

Do you SNORE loudly (louder than talking or loud enough to be heard through closed doors)?	yes	no
Do you often feel TIRED, fatigued, or sleepy during daytime?	yes	no
Has anyone OBSERVED you stop breathing during your sleep?	yes	no
Do you have or are you being treated for high blood PRESSURE?	yes	no
BMI more than 35kg/m2?	yes	no
AGE over 50 years old?	yes	no
NECK circumference > 16 inches (40cm)?	yes	no
GENDER: Male?	yes	no
TOTAL SCORE

High risk of OSA: Yes 5 – 8

Intermediate risk of OSA: Yes 3 – 4

Low risk of OSA: Yes 0 – 2

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