Common Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea include (but are not limited to):

  • Snoring
  • Excessive Day time fatigue
  • Memory issues/Short term memory loss
  • Frequent nighttime waking
  • Morning Headaches
  • Dry mouth
  • Drop in blood oxygen levels
  • Waking up gasping for air
  • Waking up un-refreshed
  • Waking up frequently throughout the night
  • Repetitive movement during sleep
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Depression
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • High blood pressure
  • Weight issues

I think I may have Sleep Apnea, now what?

If you think you may have Sleep Apnea, or any form of a sleep disorder, please contact your family Doctor as soon as possible. Together you can discuss the next step at treating your symptoms. If a Sleep Study is recommended your Doctor will send a referral to a Sleep Lab.

What is a Sleep Study?

A Sleep Study is an overnight stay at a diagnostic Sleep Lab to evaluate how your body functions during sleep. It is used to determine the type and severity of multiple sleep disorders. During this overnight study you will be monitored by various sensors to measure the activities in your brain, heart, lungs and certain muscles while you sleep. If it is determined that you have Sleep Apnea you will receive a prescription from your Sleep Physician with the recommended treatment. Sleep Studies are covered by OHIP with a valid health card and a referral from a Doctor.

Treatment using CPAP Therapy:

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for OSA. CPAP Therapy is a bedside treatment that delivers a continuous airflow through a mask to keep your airway open. This helps prevent apneas from occurring while you sleep.