Dr. Steven Cload's Dental Blog
Friday, February 12, 2010
Epworth Sleep Apnea Test
The Epworth sleep apnea test is a short and simple questionnaire in which you are asked to rate your likelihood of dozing off or falling asleep in eight common situations, such as riding in a car or watching TV. It takes most people about two or three minutes to complete; you can take the test and score yourself at home.
Although it is a quick and easy test, the results are very meaningful. It is used by healthcare professionals worldwide as an initial assessment of daytime sleepiness, to determine if a patient may suffer from a sleep disorder and how severely it is affecting their health and lives. Used at home, it can help you determine if it is time to seek medical advice.
The Epworth test is particularly effective in detecting sleep apnea. Dr. Steven Cload uses the test to differentiate sleep apnea from primary snoring. Whether your snoring is caused by sleep apnea or not, Dr. Cload can help you stop. However, his approach to treatment will be affected by the underlying cause. If the Epworth test suggests that sleep apnea is at the heart of your snoring he may want you to use the Apnea Risk Evaluation System™ (AREAS), which monitors you while you sleep.
Sleep apnea is a dangerous condition that can lead to life-threatening health problems, as well as the daily risks caused by sleep deprivation. Fortunately, sleep apnea and snoring can be treated, giving you and your family the gift of restful sleep again. Dr. Cload can provide you with a custom-fitted device to wear while you sleep that keeps you jaw in the proper position so that you airway stays open. If the underlying cause of your snoring or sleep apnea involves a misaligned bite or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ/TMD), he can help you resolve that as well.
If you live in the Calgary, Alberta area and snore or experience daytime sleepiness, please contact Southcentre Dental Clinic today.
posted by
Tiffany
at
1:54 PM
<< Home