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Home » Services » Sleep Center Sleep CenterWhat is Sleep Apnea?Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep when structures in the throat block the flow of air in and out of the lungs. It is a relatively common condition that may be found in people of any age but is most common in people between 35 to 55 years of age. Obstructive sleep apnea can be due to obstruction from the tongue, tonsils, uvula, fatty tissue deposits, or muscle relaxation in the throat which blocks air intake. During an episode, the patient with OSA continues to attempt to inhale against the closed airway. Finally, a partial or complete awakening occurs and normal breathing resumes. This return to normal breathing is often marked by a loud snore. People who suffer from OSA may stop breathing repetitively throughout the night without even knowing it. These recurrent partial awakenings prevent restful sleep. In addition, OSA often is associated with low oxygen levels during these events, and may lead to high blood pressure, heart attacks and heart failure if left untreated. For information about sleep apnea and other sleep disorders, visit our Health Library. Buffalo Area Sleep CentersEvaluationEvaluation for sleep apnea is by physician referral. If you have concerns that you may have sleep apena or suffer from some of the symptoms mentioned above, discuss these with your physician. If you do not have a physician and suspect you have sleep apnea, you may contact the Sisters of Charity Hospital, St. Joseph Campus Sleep Laboratory directly at (716) 891-2782 or the Laboratory for Sleep Related Breathing Disorders at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo at (716) 828-2335. As part of the self-referral procedure, you will be seen by a doctor, who will determine if sleep testing is recommended. InsuranceSleep Apnea is a recognized medical condition that is covered by most insurance carriers. Patients are advised to contact the Sleep Laboratory with any specific insurance questions. AppointmentsTo learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call the St. Joseph Campus Sleep Laboratory at (716) 891-2782 or the Laboratory for Sleep Related Breathing Disorders at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo at (716) 828-2335. |