The NJ Police Chief Magazine Volume 26, Number 3 | Page 24

The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | November 2019
Ask the Physician
My wife tells me that I snore horribly during the night and it keeps her up. I’m worried I might have sleep apnea, and
am not sure what to do about it. Mark N., East Windsor, NJ
Mark, deep snoring at night can definitely be hard on your wife. It also is a sign that you probably aren’t getting the best night’s
sleep yourself, which can lead to many other health conditions including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes.
Sleep apnea, which is when your breathing stops repeatedly while you’re sleeping, in particular can take a toll on your health, and
cause fatigue and excessive tiredness.
Sleep apnea and poor sleep quality can contribute to mood swings, decreased
concentration, headaches, high blood pressure, and weight gain.
If sleep apnea is the problem, there are a variety of treatment options which are available. CPAP is a device which is extremely
effective however other options include oral appliances, surgery on the tonsils and soft palate, weight loss and the Inspire
neurostimulator.
Mark, it’s my recommendation that you make an appointment for an overnight sleep study, although if that isn’t convenient for
you, there are at home sleep studies that a physician can order. The sooner you get to the bottom of what’s causing your snoring,
the sooner you and your wife can both can a good night’s sleep!
For an appointment, or more information about Deborah Heart and Lung Center’s services: 855-646-3484 or request an
appointment at www.DemandDeborah.org.
Marcella Frank, DO
Attending Pulmonologist
Sleep Medicine Specialist
Deborah Heart and Lung Center
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