Instant global communication is easy. With the rise of the “blogosphere” everyone’s opinion, informed or not, becomes, “It must be true, I read it on the internet”. When your quality of life hangs in the balance it’s important to seek out quality advice. This is the case with obstructive sleep apnea.

If you’re not achieving restorative sleep each night, your “sleep-debt” will erode your quality of life. It’s impossible to treat if you aren’t diagnosed. The first step is to be aware of the symptoms and then speak to your doctor. It’s like catching any other malignant problem; the earlier the better. It’s also equally important to look outward at family members, immediate and extended; whom you believe might have the symptoms mentioned. Advice from a loved one usually goes a long way.

If you’re reading this, then you’re on track to improving your life right now. Send this link to a loved one and we’ll be able to provide them with some information. If they don’t want to help themselves right away, it might be a good idea to bring it up again later. A motivated family member can be a useful partner for a doctor or provider. Couples often come to our offices together the first time. The show of support and desire to see their spouse thrive again is very important.

CPAP is being mentioned now more than ever in popular culture. Films and talk-show hosts are bringing OSA into the public eye. Again you’re encouraged to get the real facts, and to not be misinformed by a punch line.