Sleep Medicine

Sleep apnea is a serious disorder that causes breathing to repeatedly stop and start during sleep. Untreated sleep apnea can cause fatigue, and lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke, and other serious health problems.


Types of Sleep Apnea

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea. OSA occurs due to a physical blockage, usually the collapsing of the soft tissue in the back of the throat. In some cases, the blockage of air is so great that no air can get through, causing repeated awakenings throughout the night. Loud snorers often experience OSA.
  • Central sleep apnea (CSA) occurs because the muscles that control breathing don't receive the proper signals from the brain.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

  • Insomnia
  • Loud snoring
  • Headaches upon waking
  • Sleeping / drowsiness during the day
  • Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat

Risk Factors

Anyone can experience sleep apnea, even children, but the risk factors associated with this disorder include:

  • Obesity
  • A family history of sleep apnea
  • Heart problems
  • Smoking
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Gender – Sleep apnea is more common in males.
  • Age – The risk of sleep apnea is significantly higher with adults over 40.

Get Tested

There are several effective ways to have a polysomnogram (sleep test) administered.  Today, the sleep test can even be performed by you in the comfort of your home.  Drs. Blake Barnes, Mike Louscher & Eric Barnes are proud to offer EZ Sleep In-Home testing to provide convenient and simple, yet effective service with a streamlined process - from taking your test, getting diagnosed and beginning treatment.  Ask us how!


Treatment

Treatment for sleep apnea varies, depending on the severity and type of sleep apnea a person suffers from. The most common treatment for sleep apnea is the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. Other treatment options include oral appliances and lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, exercise, and avoiding alcohol and smoking. In extreme cases, surgery is recommended. At the Dental Center of North Iowa we are proud to offer treatment right here in our practice!  If you've been considering the oral appliance as successful treatment in sleep medicine, please don't hesitate - call today for a free consultation!

Dental Center of North Iowa

  • Main Office - 2800 4th St. S.W., Suite 1, Mason City, IA 50401 Phone: 641-424-8062
  • Belmond Office - 311 E. Main St., Belmond, IA 50421 Phone: 641-444-4477
  • Britt Office - 311 S. Main Ave., Britt, IA 50423 Phone: 641-843-3827

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