What is sleep apnea?

Did you know that sleep apnea is a medical condition that affects approximately 18 million Americans? It is characterized by brief interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can lead to physical and psychological issues such as excessive daytime sleepiness, headaches, irritability, high blood pressure, and weight gain. These interruptions can last anywhere from 10 seconds to a minute and, if left untreated, can lead to severe health issues such as heart disease and stroke.

OSA vs. CSA

Sleep apnea can come in two forms: Obstructive (OSA) and Central (CSA).

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form of sleep apnea and is caused by a blockage in the airway, usually due to the soft tissues in the back of the throat collapsing and blocking the airway.

Central sleep apnea (CSA) is less common than OSA and is caused by a problem with signals from the brain to the muscles that control breathing. With CSA, no physical obstructions are blocking the airway, but rather an issue with how signals are sent from the brain to control breathing.

Treatment for both types of sleep apnea includes lifestyle changes such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol and tobacco products, and sleeping on one's side instead of their back. In some cases, a CPAP machine may also be recommended to help keep airways open during sleep.

Treatments for Sleep Apnea

If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor may prescribe surgery or special devices to help you breathe more easily and sleep better. One of the most common treatments for sleep apnea is using a CPAP machine. This device delivers air through a hose into your nose to create a gentle airflow that keeps your airway open while you sleep. But let's explore various treatment options for sleep apnea.

1. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A CPAP machine is a device that provides a steady flow of pressurized air through a mask to keep the airways open during sleep. The pressure is adjusted to match the patient's needs and can be used for OSA and CSA.

2. Oral Appliances: Oral appliances are devices that fit in the mouth like a mouthguard, which push the jaw forward to help keep the airway open during sleep.

3. Surgery: Surgery can be used to remove excess tissue from the throat or tighten loose tissue to prevent airway blockage.

4. Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, and sleeping on your side can help reduce or eliminate sleep apnea symptoms.

Other Treatments 

In addition to the treatments mentioned above, there are a few other options for treating sleep apnea. These include positional therapy, which involves sleeping on one's side to reduce the risk of the airway obstruction; nasal dilator strips, which help keep the airway open during sleep; and mandibular advancement devices, designed to move the lower jaw forward and open up the airway.

Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes such as reducing stress and avoiding caffeine before bedtime to help reduce sleep apnea symptoms. Following your doctor's advice when treating your sleep apnea is essential for the best results.

No matter your treatment, you must talk to your doctor about your options and find a solution that works for you. With proper treatment and adherence to healthy lifestyle habits, those suffering from sleep apnea can enjoy a better quality of life and improved overall health. 

By: Hillary Flores June 5th, 2023

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Citations:

Sleep Apnea, Hypertension, and Their Health Effects - Center for Advanced Dentistry. https://whitesmilesforlife.com/sleep-apnea-hypertension-and-their-health-effects/

SomnoMed Avant. https://www.modernsleepsolution.com/products/somnomed-avant

Five Ways to Address Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Sleep Solutions Nevada. https://sleepsolutionsnv.com/five-ways-to-address-obstructive-sleep-apnea/

Discover the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Sleep Apnea - Seriable. https://seriable.com/treatment-of-sleep-apnea/