Sleep Matters: What You Need to Know About Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Sleep is when your body rests, heals, and resets. But what if something is interrupting it? That’s what happens with Obstructive Sleep Apnea—often called OSA.
What is OSA?
OSA happens when the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much while you sleep, and your airway gets blocked or very narrow. This means that you might stop breathing for short times during the night—even if you don’t remember it.
Who can get OSA?
Kids and adults both can have OSA. It’s not just for grown-ups. It might look different in children than in adults.
What does OSA look like?
For kids:
Loud snoring
Gasping or choking while asleep
Breathing through the mouth
Trouble paying attention in school
For adults:
Very loud snoring
Feeling very sleepy during the day
Waking up gasping for air
Mood changes, trouble focusing
These signs matter because the airway block stops restful sleep, and that can affect the whole day.
Why is it important to fix it?
When OSA is not treated:
You don’t get deep, good sleep.
Your body doesn’t get enough oxygen at times.
Over time this can lead to other health problems: heart issues, high blood pressure, memory problems, and mood disorders.
What can you do?
If your child loudly snores, wakes up gasping, or has trouble at school — get them checked.
If you’re an adult and you feel drained even after “sleeping enough,” or you notice mood or memory changes — consider getting screened.
There are treatments for OSA, including special machines, dental devices, changing sleep position or losing weight.
How we help in Florida
At Sunset Behavioral Health, we understand that sleep and mental health go hand-in-hand. Whether for children, teens or adults, we provide online telehealth psychiatric care in Florida and we include sleep disorders as part of the mental-health journey.
Need care now? No long wait.
Florida families: get seen within 48 hours, online.
Meet Luisa Garcia, a dual-certified Family & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who treats all ages (Se habla español).
✅ Conditions we treat include: Anxiety • ADHD • Autism Spectrum Disorder • Sleep Disorders • Mood & Bipolar Disorders • Substance Use Disorder.
📞 Ready to get started? Book a FREE 15-minute consult at sbhmind.com
Sleep isn’t just about rest—it’s about your health, your mood, your focus, and your future. Don’t let shortcuts or snoring become a big problem. If you or someone you love has signs of OSA, reach out—and let’s get the care you deserve.
Sleep well. Feel better. Live stronger.
