Sleep Apnea is a condition in which the airways become blocked during sleep, and breathing stops temporarily, causing loud snoring and interrupted sleep. Sleep Apnea can lead to serious health risks, including high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, and even death. Sleep Apnea can profoundly affect the quality of life, including fatigue and poor sleep leading to daytime drowsiness and lower productivity. There are many treatments for Sleep Apnea that may help improve Sleep Apnea symptoms without resorting to surgery.
Common Treatments for Sleep Apnea
CPAP Therapy
One of the most common treatments for Sleep Apnea is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, which involves using a machine to provide a steady stream of air through a mask during sleep. CPAP helps keep the airway open by increasing pressure in the throat and can prevent Sleep Apnea episodes from occurring. Using a CPAP machine is non-invasive, and can also improve Sleep Apnea symptoms such as snoring, daytime sleepiness, and poor concentration.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) is another non-surgical Sleep Apnea treatment that is growing in popularity. OAT involves the use of an oral device worn while sleeping. These devices are worn over the teeth and help to keep the airway open by moving the jaw forward, or by bringing the tongue forward. Oral devices are designed specifically for each patient by a dentist or Sleep Apnea specialist and offer a comfortable solution for Sleep Apnea treatment without side effects.
At-Home Treatments for Sleep Apnea
In addition to the treatments mentioned above, there are some at-home remedies that may help improve Sleep Apnea symptoms. Some of these include drinking plenty of water throughout the day, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and avoiding sleeping on your back. Exercising regularly can also help reduce Sleep Apnea episodes by strengthening throat muscles. Nasal spray and decongestants can also help to keep the airway open while sleeping. It is also important to maintain a regular sleep schedule and get between seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
If left untreated, Sleep Apnea can lead to serious health complications, so it is important for Sleep Apnea sufferers to seek treatment as soon as possible. With the wide range of non-surgical treatments available, Sleep Apnea can be managed without surgery and patients can still enjoy a full night’s rest. If you suffer from Sleep Apnea and are considering treatment options, talk to your doctor about the best option for you. Treating without surgery may help to reduce episodes and improve the overall quality of life. With the right plan, Sleep Apnea symptoms can be reduced and quality of life improved.
If you have found yourself suffering from symptoms of Sleep Apnea, contact Salling and Tate Family Dentistry today. Salling and Tate offer specialists who can help you find the right treatment to fit your needs. The team is committed to assisting Sleep Apnea sufferers get the sleep they need and deserve, without invasive surgery.