Sleep apnea refers to pauses in breathing that occur while one sleeps. Sleep apnea prevents people from having a restful sleep, which affects their overall health, and quality of life. If it is not treated, sleep apnea can lead to daytime sleepiness and trouble thinking clearly. People with untreated sleep apnea have an increased risk of car or work accidents, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and early death. It is very common affecting 1 in 5 adults and 4 in 100 children. The risk of Canadian adults developing obstructive sleep apnea is even greater.

Dr. Colin Ellis, respirologist and sleep medicine specialist will provide a presentation to members of the public on Sleep Apnea 101. Following the presentation, there will be a moderated question and answer period.

The goals of this webinar are:

1. To understand what sleep apnea is and how it impacts one’s health and health related outcomes
2. To understand the risk factors of developing obstructive sleep apnea
3. To understand the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea
4. To increase education on how sleep apnea is diagnosed
5. To increase education on how sleep apnea is treated

About Dr. Colin Ellis

Dr. Colin Ellis is a Respirologist and Sleep Medicine specialist based in Saskatoon. He is also an Assistance Professor in the Division of Respirology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan. Dr. Ellis completed his Internal Medicine residency and Respirology fellowship at the University of Saskatchewan. He then completed a fellowship in Sleep Disorders Medicine at the University of British Columbia. Dr. Ellis has clinical interests in sleep disordered breathing, the respiratory management of neuromuscular disorders, and is passionate about helping patients and caregivers living with sleep apnea.