Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted during the night. These pauses can last more than 10 seconds, causing low blood oxygen levels, micro-arousals and disrupted sleep quality.
At Dr. Alexis Politis’ office in Kavala, sleep apnea is investigated with modern methods, such as sleep studies, and treated with personalized treatments.
Types of sleep apnea
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): is caused when the airways close or narrow during sleep.
- Central sleep apnea (CSA): the brain does not send correct signals to the breathing muscles.
- Mixed type of apnea: a combination of obstructive and central.
Symptoms of sleep apnea apnea
The most common signs to watch out for are:
- Loud snoring interrupted by pauses in breathing
- Episodes of apnea observed by family members
- Morning fatigue & feeling of restless sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Reduced concentration & memory
- Morning dry mouth or headache
- Irritability, anxiety or depressed mood
- Sexual dysfunctions
- Increased body weight and obesity
👉 Sleep apnea not only affects sleep quality, but also cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of hypertension, arrhythmias, stroke and heart attack.
Diagnosis of sleep apnea
The diagnosis is made with:
- Clinical assessment and respiratory control
- Spirometry to check respiratory function
- Sleep Study (multiple recording test): recording of parameters such as saturation oxygen, airflow, heart rate and chest movements during sleep
A sleep study is the most reliable method for confirming the diagnosis and determining the severity of the syndrome.
Therapeutic treatment
The treatment of sleep apnea is multifactorial and individualized:
Lifestyle changes
- Loss weight
- Quit smoking
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before bed
- Sleep on your side instead of on your back
Medical treatment
- CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device: the most effective treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. It provides continuous positive air pressure that keeps the airways open.
- Oral mandibular advancement devices: in mild cases or when the patient cannot tolerate CPAP.
- Medication: in selected cases, mainly in central sleep apnea.
- Surgical treatment: in special cases with anatomical abnormalities (e.g. tonsil hypertrophy).
Why is treatment important?
Early and proper treatment of sleep apnea:
- Reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications
- Improves energy and mental performance
- Increases the quality of sleep and life
- Prevents traffic and work accidents due to drowsiness
Your Pulmonologist in Kavala for sleep apnea
Dr Alexis Politis provides specialized diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea with sleep studies and modern therapeutic options. The personalized approach ensures the optimal treatment of each patient.
📌 Book your appointment today
If you snore heavily or feel tired during the day, don’t ignore it. Sleep apnea can be treated effectively.
📍 Mitropolitou Chrysostomou 6, Kavala
📞 251 021 1887
📧 alexispolitis@hotmail.com
