Sleep apnea is a common problem affecting both children and adults. Sleep apnea occurs when some sort of genetic abnormality in the mouth, throat or nose causes an airway obstruction, making it difficult to breath during sleep. Loud snoring, gasping for air, or choking in ones sleep, are generally the telltale signs and symptoms of sleep apnea. The National Institutes of Health estimate that more than 12 million Americans have sleep apnea, most often undetected or misdiagnosed. In fact, conservative estimates suggest that only 16 percent of sleep apnea sufferers receive treatment.

If not treated, sleep apnea can have many negative effects on your well-being. Sleep apnea may contribute to high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and erectile dysfunction, as well as to memory and concentration impairment. Since sleep apnea causes sudden awakenings throughout the night that interrupt your sleep – as well as the sleep of loved ones – sufferers might find themselves feeling irritable and depressed or struggling to stay awake during the day. In fact, sleep apnea is a leading cause of car accidents.

Dr. Howard has advanced training in the treatment of Sleep Apnea and Snoring and is a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The protocol today for the treatment of Mild and Moderate and Severe Sleep Apnea with CPAP intolerance is an oral device. The Noiselezz Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece is one type which can be custom fitted and worn while sleeping to hold the lower jaw in an appropriate position, so that airflow is not blocked.