(410) 729-6794
Sleep apnea can make gaining the benefits of a good night’s rest into a daily struggle. The struggles of sleep apnea can also affect your family or partner who may struggle to find rest due to your snoring. Sleep apnea is a disorder that 50-70 million people in the US deal with every day. While snoring can be a nuisance while trying to sleep, sleep apnea can have larger health implications in life, so treatment can be very important. A common treatment for more severe cases of sleep apnea is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. CPAP therapy includes a machine connected to a breathing mask to provide proper airflow during sleep. CPAP therapy can have some users feeling uncomfortable or claustrophobic while wearing the mask, amongst other problems. Learn about some alternatives to CPAP and how they can benefit you.
Oral Appliances
Oral appliances are a common sleep apnea treatment option for milder cases that require less care and effort in comparison to the CPAP. Appliances such as mouthguards help hold the tongue in place or ease the jaw forward, helping to keep the airway free and open during sleep. These appliances are smaller and require less routine care to use.
Oral Surgery
Some people can have sleep apnea due to more genetic conditions. Some individuals are born with big tonsils or extra tissue in their throat and may have trouble breathing while they sleep. Some other issues may involve the tongue, jaw or soft palate. Oral surgery can give a patient the permanent changes to their anatomy to allow them to naturally breathe easier during sleep.
Positional Therapy
Positioning during sleep can potentially contribute to sleep apnea by making breathing more difficult. Sleeping on your stomach or your side could make you less likely to experience sleep apnea. Some sleep apnea devices attached to your waist or back can help keep you from lying on your back and reduce your symptoms of sleep apnea.
Other options for mild and severe cases of sleep apnea treatment on a more personal level exist, such as changes in lifestyle. Weight loss can reduce or remove symptoms of sleep apnea if handled properly. CPAP therapy may not be for everyone dealing with sleep apnea, but other options do exist. If you have any questions about sleep apnea or want to schedule a consultation, contact Chesapeake Sleep Center today.
Chesapeake Sleep Center
Phone: (410) 729-6794 Email: prmdds@aol.com
