Treating sleep apnea

It could save your life

What's it like to feel rested when you wake in the morning? You haven't felt that way in years and have just chalked it up to getting older. Your wife says you snore — a lot and loudly. Yet, you don't recall any of this.

The explanation may be obstructive sleep apnea. Left untreated, this nighttime breathing disorder not only causes ongoing sleepiness, but also can contribute to cardiovascular problems and possibly sudden death.

Once the condition is identified, treatments for obstructive sleep apnea can be very effective, ranging from simple lifestyle changes to specialized breathing masks or even surgery.

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