Group supports those with sleep disordered breathing

Submitted by Centegra Health System

Centegra Health System offers a support group for patients and family members who are affected by sleep disordered breathing. The A.W.A.K.E. (Alert, Well and Keeping Energetic) Support Group is part of the American Sleep Apnea Association network.

A.W.A.K.E. meets quarterly and provides education and an opportunity to share ideas with others affected by this condition. This December, the session will focus on oral appliance therapy. Dr. Gene Sherman, a dentist who is board-certified by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, will speak about oral appliances. These are small plastic devices that fit in the mouth during sleep. Similar to a sports mouth guard or orthodontic retainer, the appliances help prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat. They keep the airway open during sleep to improve breathing. Oral appliances may be used along with other treatments for sleep-related breathing disorders such as weight management, surgery or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

Attend the next meeting of the A.W.A.K.E. Support Group from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4 in the classrooms at Centegra Hospital-Woodstock, 3701 Doty Road in Woodstock. To register for the free meeting, call (877) CENTEGRA.