Sleep Apnea
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep. These pauses, or apneas, can last for a few seconds to a few minutes and can occur multiple times throughout the night. Sleep apnea can be caused by a variety of factors and can have serious health implications if left untreated.
Symptoms may include loud snoring, interrupted breathing during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, and waking up with a headache or sore throat. Treatment options for sleep apnea may include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and quitting smoking, as well as medical interventions such as the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, oral appliances, and in some cases, surgery.
What causes Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea can be caused by a variety of factors affecting the upper airway muscles and respiratory system, including:
- Excess weight or obesity: This can cause excess fat deposits around the upper airway, leading to airway obstruction and sleep apnea.
- Anatomical abnormalities: Certain physical characteristics or abnormalities, such as a narrow throat, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, a deviated nasal septum, or a large tongue, can cause airway blockage during sleep.
- Aging: As we age, the muscles in our airway may lose tone and become more relaxed, leading to airway collapse and sleep apnea.
- Family history: There may be a genetic component to sleep apnea, as it tends to run in families.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and sedative use can contribute to sleep apnea by relaxing the upper airway muscles and tissues.
- Other medical conditions: Sleep apnea can be associated with other medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity hypoventilation syndrome.
It’s important to speak with a healthcare provider if you suspect you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, as it can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Treatment options for sleep apnea may include lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and quitting smoking, as well as the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, oral appliances, and, in some cases, surgery.
Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea
Oral appliance therapy is a treatment option for people with sleep apnea who cannot tolerate or do not wish to use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine or undergo surgery.
How does it work?
Oral appliances are custom-made devices that fit in the mouth and help keep the airway open during sleep. The device is designed to reposition the jaw and tongue, and prevent the soft tissues of the mouth and throat from collapsing and obstructing the airway during sleep.
Benefits over CPAP or surgery
- Comfort: Oral appliances are generally more comfortable to wear than CPAP masks, which can be bulky, uncomfortable, and difficult to tolerate. They are also less invasive than surgery, which can require a lengthy recovery period.
- Easy to use: Oral appliances are easy to use and require little maintenance. They are also portable and can be easily taken with you when traveling.
- Quiet: Oral appliances do not make noise like a CPAP machine, making it easier to sleep at night.
- High success rate: Studies have shown that oral appliances can be effective in treating mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and snoring, with a success rate of up to 80%.
- Cost-effective: Oral appliances are generally less expensive than surgery or a CPAP machine, making them a more affordable option for many patients.
While oral appliance therapy is generally safe and effective, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if it's the right treatment option for you. They may recommend a sleep study to determine the severity of your condition and the best course of treatment.
