Sleep Apnea Specialist in Manhattan, NY

Sleep Apnea Specialist in Manhattan – Accepting New Patients

Sleep apnea is a common but serious condition that requires attention and treatment. Understanding the types, symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help individuals manage the condition effectively and improve their quality of life.

If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s crucial to seek medical advice from Dr. Saema Tahir, M.D. or another healthcare professional and undergo appropriate testing. With the right approach, sleep apnea can be managed effectively, allowing for better sleep and overall health.

TYPES OF SLEEP APNEA

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form. OSA occurs when the throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway during sleep, causing loud snoring and disrupted sleep.

Central Sleep Apnea: Less common. Occurs when the brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike OSA, snoring is not typically a feature of central sleep apnea.

Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this condition occurs when someone has both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.

Common misconceptions about sleep apnea:

Only overweight people get it — genetics, anatomy, and other conditions can cause apnea at any size.
Snoring always means apnea — apnea is defined by breathing stops, not snore volume.
It only affects older adults — children with enlarged tonsils, obesity, or family history are also at risk.
Alcohol helps you sleep through it — alcohol relaxes throat muscles and worsens episodes.
CPAP is uncomfortable — modern devices are quieter and better-fitting; most patients adapt within weeks.

The symptoms of sleep apnea can vary between individuals, but common signs include:

Loud Snoring: Often noted by a bed partner
Episodes of Breathing Cessation: Witnessed by another person
Gasping for Air During Sleep: Causing frequent awakenings
Morning Headache: Often due to low oxygen levels during sleep
Daytime Sleepiness: Excessive fatigue and difficulty concentrating
Irritability: Due to lack of restful sleep

HOW DR. TAHIR APPROACHES SLEEP & PULMONARY CARE

Dr. Tahir is a quadruple board certified physician who specializes in Pulmonary Disease, Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Medicine. She practices with integrity and puts patient communication at the forefront, building tailored assessments and treatment plans that involve a comprehensive physical, social and psychological evaluation.

For Dr. Tahir, best care involves trust on top of a true holistic approach. She is currently accepting new patients and can often accelerate treatment so you don’t have to wait weeks or months to get the help you need.

HOW TO MANAGE YOUR SLEEP APNEA

Sleep apnea can be effectively managed through various treatments and lifestyle changes tailored to the severity and underlying causes of the condition. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is one of the most common and effective treatments for moderate to severe sleep apnea.

In addition to CPAP therapy, lifestyle changes — such as losing excess weight, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and establishing a regular sleep routine — can significantly improve symptoms. Oral appliances, positional therapy, and in some cases surgical options may also be considered as part of a comprehensive approach.