Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

It is advisable to have sleep evaluated by a professional when nighttime rest is interrupted by loud snoring and pauses in breathing, since those signs point to obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. In it, the airway repeatedly closes while the person sleeps.

What it is: Brief pauses in breathing occur during sleep due to partial or total obstruction of the upper airway.

Common symptoms:

• Loud snoring and breathing pauses observed by others
• Drowsiness and fatigue during the day
• Awakening with a sensation of choking

Which specialist treats it? When there is a jaw or oral airway component, the maxillofacial surgeon, the dentist, and the orthodontist take part, often together with other sleep professionals. If you identify with these signs, it is worth having it evaluated by a specialist.