Dr. Gott: Sleep apnea serious issue

Dear Dr. Gott: I am writing with regard to my husband. When he falls asleep at night or even in a chair during the day, his body jerks.

There are times when his whole body shakes. I realize when we first fall asleep our body relaxes, but he jerks all night long.

He asked his doctor, who said it is normal, but I really worry about him. Is this normal?

He is an early riser and then falls asleep in his chair during the day.

Dear Reader: You have given an extremely accurate description of a medical disorder known as sleep apnea. People who have this condition fall asleep without difficulty but, during the night, they stop breathing.

The body responds by trying to awaken them using muscle jerks and other behavior. (Before you sleep experts write in consternation, I admit that this is an oversimplified explanation. The muscle activity is often clearly the result of low blood oxygen.)

This is not normal and can lead to serious health consequences, including heart disease.

Your husband needs a sleep study in a special lab. Such facilities are available in large hospitals and teaching centers. Ask your family physician for a referral and show him or her my answer to your concerns.

If your doctor refuses, change doctors. Sleep apnea is too serious to ignore.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my health report “Sleep Wake Disorders.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title.