Can Sleep Apnea Kill You? Understanding the Risks and Solutions with Dr. Jose Contreras
Sleep apnea is more than just a condition that makes you snore or feel tired during the day. Untreated sleep apnea can have serious, even life-threatening consequences. At Newport Mesa Pulmonary, we understand the concerns many patients have about their sleep health. With the addition of Dr. Jose Contreras, a highly skilled physician specializing in sleep disorders and sleep medicine, we’re here to help you understand and manage sleep apnea effectively.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes and can occur dozens or even hundreds of times during the night. The two main types of sleep apnea are Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), caused by a blockage of the airway, and Central Sleep Apnea (CSA), where the brain fails to send the correct signals to control breathing. OSA is the more common of the two.
Many people dismiss sleep apnea as a minor inconvenience, but it’s much more than just interrupted sleep. If left untreated, it can lead to significant health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Studies have shown that severe sleep apnea increases the risk of sudden cardiac death, which is why it’s important to take this condition seriously and seek treatment.
Can Sleep Apnea Kill You?
The short answer is yes—sleep apnea can be life-threatening. Here’s why:
- Heart Complications: Sleep apnea puts extra strain on the heart. Each time your breathing stops, oxygen levels drop, causing your heart to work harder. Over time, this can lead to high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. The American Heart Association notes that people with sleep apnea are at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease .
- Daytime Drowsiness and Accidents: Sleep apnea severely impacts sleep quality, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness. This can make everyday activities like driving or operating machinery dangerous. Studies show that individuals with untreated sleep apnea are significantly more likely to be involved in car accidents .
- Sudden Cardiac Death: Research has also shown a link between severe sleep apnea and an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, especially in people over the age of 60 or those with underlying heart disease .
Recognizing the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
If you’re concerned about sleep apnea, here are some key symptoms to look out for:
- Loud snoring
- Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep (often noticed by a partner)
- Gasping for air during the night
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty focusing or irritability
If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to consult a sleep specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of developing serious complications.
Meet Dr. Jose Contreras – Sleep Medicine Expert
At Newport Mesa Pulmonary, we are thrilled to introduce Dr. Jose Contreras, our newest physician and expert in sleep medicine. Dr. Contreras brings a wealth of experience and specialized training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of sleep disorders, including sleep apnea. His extensive background includes:
- Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
- Residency: The Brooklyn Hospital – Mount Sinai School of Medicine
- Fellowships: Pulmonary Medicine and Sleep Medicine at prestigious institutions such as the Mayo Clinic and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Board Certifications: Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine
Dr. Contreras is fluent in both English and Spanish, making him accessible to a wide range of patients. His patient care philosophy is centered around effective communication, making complex medical concepts easy to understand for you and your family. With a special clinical interest in Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Central Sleep Apnea, and other complex sleep conditions, Dr. Contreras is the ideal choice to help you manage your sleep health.
How Newport Mesa Pulmonary Can Help You Manage Sleep Apnea
At Newport Mesa Pulmonary, we offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options for sleep apnea, including polysomnography (sleep studies) and CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy. Dr. Contreras and our team are dedicated to ensuring you receive personalized, effective care for your sleep condition.
Dr. Contreras’ expertise in sleep medicine allows us to go beyond the basics in sleep apnea care. He has extensive experience in managing complex cases of central sleep apnea, hypoventilation, and even conditions like narcolepsy and restless legs syndrome. You’ll receive care that addresses the root causes of your sleep disorder, helping you breathe easier at night and live healthier during the day.
What to Expect from a Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment
Your journey to better sleep begins with a thorough evaluation. Dr. Contreras will assess your symptoms, review your medical history, and may recommend a sleep study to monitor your breathing and oxygen levels while you sleep. Once diagnosed, treatment options can vary depending on the severity of your sleep apnea, but they may include:
- Lifestyle modifications: Weight loss, avoiding alcohol, and changing sleep positions can help reduce symptoms in some cases.
- CPAP therapy: The most common and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, CPAP keeps your airway open by delivering continuous air pressure while you sleep.
- Oral appliances: For those who find CPAP uncomfortable, custom-made devices can help reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open.
Dr. Contreras will work closely with you to ensure the treatment plan is effective and comfortable, allowing you to regain control over your sleep health.
Book an Appointment with Dr. Jose Contreras Today
Sleep apnea is a serious condition, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can significantly reduce your risk of complications and improve your overall well-being. Dr. Jose Contreras and the team at Newport Mesa Pulmonary are here to provide the expert care and guidance you need.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea or have concerns about your sleep health, don’t wait. Book an appointment today to meet with Dr. Contreras and take the first step toward better sleep and a healthier life.
