Understanding Sleep Apnea: A Q&A with a Pulmonologist
April 9, 2025
Sleep apnea is a common but often undiagnosed condition that affects millions of people. It can significantly impact your quality of life and increase the risk of serious health issues. To help you better understand sleep apnea, we asked Ruby Williams, MD, a pulmonologist with TMH Physician Partners – Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep to answer some frequently asked questions.
Q: How do you know if you have sleep apnea?
A: Sleep apnea often goes unnoticed because its most obvious symptoms occur while you’re asleep. However, there are some common signs to watch for. If you frequently snore, wake up feeling unrefreshed or experience daytime fatigue, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. Other symptoms include waking up multiple times throughout the night, the frequent need to urinate overnight, gasping or choking during sleep and experiencing headaches or dry mouth in the morning.
Additionally, if your partner notices pauses in your breathing or irregular breathing patterns as you sleep, that’s a strong indicator of sleep apnea. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to consider seeing your doctor for further evaluation.
Q: Who is at risk for sleep apnea?
A: Sleep apnea can affect people of all shapes and sizes — it’s not just limited to those who are overweight. While obesity is a known risk factor, individuals who snore, experience restless legs, or wake up frequently during the night are also at risk.
Certain medical conditions can further increase your likelihood of developing sleep apnea. Patients with a history of stroke, heart attack, or atrial fibrillation (AFib) are often more prone to sleep apnea. Additionally, if you experience non-restorative sleep — meaning you wake up tired despite a full night’s rest — this could be a sign of an underlying sleep disorder.
Q: How do I know if I should see a doctor?
A: If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above or notice your daily energy levels are consistently low, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.
A doctor can evaluate your symptoms and recommend a sleep study to determine whether you have sleep apnea. Seeking medical advice early can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall well-being.
Q: I’m claustrophobic and can’t stand the thought of something covering my face when I sleep. Are there other options for me?
A: Absolutely. While CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is a common and effective treatment for sleep apnea, it’s not the only option. For those who struggle with CPAP due to claustrophobia or discomfort, an innovative treatment called Inspire Therapy may be a solution.
The Inspire Device is an implantable device that works by stimulating the nerves that control your airway. It gently opens your airway during sleep, preventing obstruction without the need for a mask or external device. This option is particularly beneficial for individuals with developmental challenges, such as Down syndrome, or for those who cannot tolerate traditional CPAP therapy.
I should add, there are a lot of qualifications that must be met to receive the inspire device, including insurance approval.
Q: Are there other new technologies to treat sleep apnea?
A: Yes, advancements in sleep apnea treatment continue to provide patients with more choices. Another option is the Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), a custom-made dental appliance that resembles a mouthguard. It works by pushing the lower jaw slightly forward, which helps keep the airway open and prevents obstruction during sleep.
These devices are especially helpful for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who experience CPAP intolerance. At our facility, we collaborate with oral maxillofacial surgeons to ensure patients receive a properly fitted MAD for effective treatment.
Similarly, for patients with more severe sleep apnea, we have oral and maxillofacial surgeons at TMH who specialize in maxillomandibular advancement surgery. Just like the device, this procedure is for patients with whose jaws don’t align properly but need a more permanent solution.
The surgery involves moving both the upper jaw and lower jaw forward. It’s a very precise procedure, supported by imaging, modeling and 3D surgical guides, that can open up the airway significantly.
Q: How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
A: Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study, which measures your breathing, oxygen levels and other factors while you sleep. At our state-of-the-art sleep center, we aim to make this experience as comfortable as possible.
The Tallahassee Memorial Sleep Center is designed to feel more like a hotel than a medical facility. With private rooms, cozy bedding and a relaxing atmosphere, patients can rest comfortably while undergoing the study. For those who prefer the convenience of staying at home, we also offer at-home sleep studies using portable diagnostic equipment. Your doctor will help determine which option is best for you.
Q: Anything else people should know about sleep apnea treatment and diagnosis?
A: If you’re concerned about sleep apnea, know that you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our experienced team at TMH Physician Partners - Pulmonology, Critical Care & Sleep is committed to providing personalized care to help you breathe easier and sleep better. From diagnosis to treatment, we’ll work closely with you to find the right solution.
