Sleep Studies in Reno

16. May 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Diagnosing a Sleep Disorder, Sleep Apnea

Problems that occur during sleep, such as sleep apnea, are difficult to detect because our conscious minds are unaware of that fact they are happening. A condition as serious as sleep apnea, when an individual regularly stops breathing for ten seconds or longer while asleep, can be extremely dangerous if left untreated. This is why Dr. Wager would like to explain to you what a sleep study is and the ways in which it can help.

Home-Based Sleep Study

Many sleep studies are often performed in hospitals, in a special place called a sleep lab. For your convenience, however, Dr. Wager offers a home-based sleep study. To determine if you need a sleep study, you must first make an appointment with him. If Dr. Wager feels that you may indeed suffer from sleep apnea, then a sleep study is the next step. You will then be provided with a pulse oximeter, a portable device that keeps track of the oxygen levels in your blood, your heart rate, the flow of air through your nose, and the movements of your chest. All of this data will be recorded while you sleep in the comfort of your own home. Also, do not worry if this sounds a bit confusing, because your friendly Reno doctor will show you in great detail how the pulse oximeter works before sending you home with it. More »

Give Mom the Gift of a Good Night’s Sleep

09. May 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Sleep Apnea, Sleep Better Reno

What are you planning on giving the special lady in your life for Mother’s Day this Sunday? Sure, Mom would appreciate a beautiful bouquet of flowers or breakfast in bed, but there’s something that she might like even more—a good night’s sleep. In many families, Mom earns the title of Super Woman on a daily basis as she balances everyone’s schedules, runs the household, and gives the perfect amount of TLC at a moment’s notice, so this Mother’s Day, pamper Mom with some much-needed shut-eye.

Sleep Better in Reno

While turning off the television and keeping your voice down might be enough to help your mom obtain a night of sound sleep, some moms need a little more to get the sleep they need, especially moms with sleep apnea.

If you notice that the woman in your life wakes up several times throughout the night gasping for air, she might have sleep apnea and should receive professional treatment right away.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing ceases several times during a sleep cycle for anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. This occurs because the oral and throat muscles relax during sleep and shift, blocking the airways and obstructing normal airflow. When breathing stops, the brain wakes the body to reinitiate normal breathing. This causes you to awake abruptly and, ultimately, keeps you from obtaining a peaceful night’s sleep. More »

Celebrate Sleep Better Month in Reno

02. May 2012 · Write a comment · Categories: Sleep and Your Health, Sleep Apnea, Sleep Conditions

Did you know that sleep apnea can affect your overall health? Sleep apnea is linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, and depression. In honor of Sleep Better Month, your Reno sleep dentist, Dr. William Wager explains.

Heart Disease and Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea may contribute to coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure. According to Johns Hopkins researchers,  sleep apnea patients are at a heightened risk for developing coronary artery disease because their heart rates fluctuate wildly throughout the night.

High Blood Pressure and Sleep Apnea

Did you know almost half of all patients diagnosed with sleep apnea also have high blood pressure? Unlike healthy sleepers whose blood pressure rates normally fall during rest, patients with sleep apnea do not experience a drop in blood pressure. The incidence of high blood pressure among sleep apnea patients affects both genders and all ethnic groups. More »

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