Sleep apnea and respiratory disorders impact long-term health

Sleep apnea and respiratory sleep disorders represent significant health concerns that extend beyond simple fatigue. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when the upper airway collapses, causing breathing to stop for more than 10 seconds multiple times per hour. This prevents patients from reaching deep sleep stages, leading to daytime sleepiness, headaches, irritability, and cognitive issues such as impaired memory and concentration.

Physiologically, the lack of oxygen during sleep can lead to serious conditions, including hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, and an increased risk of myocardial infarction. In Portugal, it is estimated that one million people suffer from this pathology, which is linked to over 100,000 traffic accidents annually due to drivers falling asleep at the wheel.

Specialized clinical approaches, such as those practiced by Dr. Fernanda Fonseca, focus on the individualized diagnosis and treatment of snoring and apnea. Diagnostic tools like home polysomnography allow for investigation within the patient's own environment. Professional expertise, supported by organizations like the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), is essential for managing these conditions through evidence-based therapeutic alternatives.