Cassie Brown Board Member | Bothwell Regional Health Center
Cassie Brown Board Member | Bothwell Regional Health Center
As a physician in Sedalia, Dr. Gabriel Anders treats many patients with sleep disorders, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This condition occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing or shallow breaths. Symptoms of OSA include snoring, gasping during sleep, frequent urination at night, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, dry mouth upon waking, and difficulty concentrating.
Untreated OSA can lead to severe health issues such as high blood pressure, heart problems, stroke, weight gain, worsening diabetes and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. There is also an increased risk of falling asleep while driving. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for OSA.
The initial step in addressing OSA is obtaining a sleep study. Diagnosis can be achieved through an overnight stay in a sleep lab or a home test worn on the wrist for one night. Once diagnosed, treatment options are discussed.
Lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in managing chronic health conditions like OSA. A balanced diet rich in whole foods and regular aerobic exercise can improve sleep quality and help maintain a healthy weight.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for OSA. It involves wearing a mask that delivers air to keep the airway open during sleep. Proper mask fitting is essential for effectiveness and comfort.
For patients unable to tolerate CPAP masks, alternative treatments should be considered with medical guidance. One option is the Inspire device—an implantable nerve stimulator that keeps airway muscles open without requiring a mask. Insurance companies typically require patients to try CPAP before approving advanced therapies like this device.
Additionally, the FDA has approved Zepbound (tirzepatide) for patients with obesity and moderate to severe OSA. This weekly injection aids weight loss by increasing insulin secretion and improving fat metabolism among other effects. While insurance coverage may limit access to Zepbound currently, future changes could expand its availability.
Dr. Anders encourages individuals experiencing symptoms of OSA or those previously diagnosed but untreated to seek referrals from their doctors to specialists at Bothwell Regional Health Center.
Dr. Gabriel Anders specializes in pulmonology and treats various lung diseases including asthma and COPD at Bothwell Regional Health Center since July 2021. He resides in Sedalia with his family.
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