People who snore make noise when they sleep. People with sleep apnea STOP BREATHING when they sleep.
Snoring is a partial obstruction of airflow between the nose and trachea(windpipe) during sleep. Because the obstruction is only partial, there is NO reduction in oxygen level.
Sleep apnea is caused by upper airway obstruction during sleep, with a corresponding reduction in oxygen level.
Many people snore, but do not have sleep apnea. Their sleep may not be as restful, and, for loud snorers, certainly affects the sleep of their bed partners.
Everyone with sleep apnea is a snorer. Sleep apnea not only affects sleep quality, but the cardiovascular system as well. Because oxygenation is reduced, the heart has to work harder to deliver oxygenated blood to the brain. The risks of hypertension, heart disease, arrhythmia, and stroke are increased in those with moderate-severe sleep apnea.
We Treat Snoring and Sleep Apnea in Great Neck
The only way to reliably differentiate snoring from sleep apnea is with a sleep study. Essentially, a sleep study measures breathing and oxygenation during sleep. A sleep study can be performed at home or in a sleep lab. Sleep lab studies are more comprehensive, measuring brain waves and leg movement, in addition to breathing. For most people, home sleep studies are sufficient, more convenient, and frequently the only study that will be covered by insurance.
