How to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea | Treating Sleep Apnea

How to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

In this article we will look at treatment for sleep apnea, and the various methods of obstructive sleep apnea treatment available to sufferers.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Goals

The aims of obstructive sleep apnea treatment include the following;

• Relieve sleep apnea symptoms such as daytime tiredness and heavy snoring.
• Restore regular breathing patterns during sleep.

Treatment will help to reduce the risk of diabetes, strokes and heart disease as well as assisting in other health areas, associated with sleep apnea, such as high blood pressure.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

The obstructive sleep apnea treatment methods which we will look at in more detail are lifestyle changes, breathing apparatus, mouthpieces and surgery.  There is currently no medicine available to treat sleep apnea, so we have to rely on the aforementioned techniques.  Before selecting and following a treatment process, ensure to consult with your doctor to discuss whether or not it is the best option for you.

Mild sleep apnea is best treated by lifestyle changes or mouthpieces, whilst moderate to obstructive sleep apnea will probably require breathing assistance equipment or surgery in extreme cases.

Lifestyle Changes to Treat Sleep Apnea

Some alterations to your daily lifestyle can have extremely positive results on all aspects of your health, and sleep apnea is no different.  Here are some adjustments you can make in an attempt to reduce the effects of sleep apnea.

• If you are overweight, or obese, try losing weight.  Slimming, however slight, will contribute towards improving your symptoms.
• Quit smoking
• Use nose sprays or allergy medicines to keep your nasal passages open.  Consult your doctor, to find out if any of these treatments will help you.
• Limit alcohol intake, and avoid medicines which make you feel tired.  These contribute to making it more difficult for your throat to stay open during sleep.
• Try sleeping on your side.  Sleeping on your back may be heightening the apneas.  Special pillows exist which force you from lying on your back, so it may be worth investing in one of these pillows.

Mouthpieces to Treat Sleep Apnea

Mild sleep apnea can be treated, in some cases, with a mouthpiece, also referred to as an ‘oral appliance’.  Mouthpieces are also recommended to lour snorers irregardless if they have sleep apnea or not.  Dentists are capable of developing customised mouthpieces for individuals in order to treat mild sleep apnea.  The mouthpieces effectively alter your lower jaw and tongue to ensure your airways remain open throughout sleep.

If you experience discomfort whilst using a mouthpiece, be sure to check back with your doctor, as the mouthpiece may need adjusting to allow it to fit more comfortably.

Breathing Devices to Treat Sleep Apnea

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most regular treatment for moderate sleep apnea and severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults.  CPAP machines exist which utilise a mask which is places over the sufferers nose and mouth, or in some cases over the nose only, then a constant stream of air is blown into the throat.  This air presses against your airway wall, with adjustable pressure levels, as to allow the throat to remain uncompressed.

Sleep apnea can return if this type of treatment is stopped, so it is important to continue with this treatment, even if snoring disappears, or if you ‘feel’ like you have been cured.  The CPAP equipment will typically be set up by a technician, who will set the machine based on your doctor’s recommendation.  It is often necessary to adjust the settings of the machine, in order to achieve the most significant results.

Despite the significant positives of the treatment, there are a number of side effects which are associated with use of breathing devices.  These include stuffy or dry nose, irritated skin, sore eyes and headaches.  Stomach bloating can occur if the device has not been adjusted and set correctly.

A nasal spray can help to combat the dry, stuffy nose, and by consulting with your sleep specialist, you can work together to adjust the machine to match your needs and requirements.  Adding moisture to the flowing air can also help reduce these side effects.  Different kinds of machines exist, so if one doesn’t seem to be working for you, then it may be worthwhile switching over to a different kind of machine, again via consultation with your doctor.

Surgery to Treat Sleep Apnea

Surgery is an option for a selection of obstructive sleep apnea sufferers, but it all depends on the type of surgery, and the cause of the sleep apnea.  Surgery widens the breathing passage which typically involves shrinking, removing or stiffening excess tissue from the throat and mouth, or resetting the lower jaw completely.

Shrinking and stiffening of the tissue can be performed in a hospital or a doctor’s office.  Tissue shrinking is often achieved through a series of small shots, whereas stiffening tissue involves an incision in which a small piece of plastic is fitted.

The removal of tissue can only be performed in a hospital, during which you are giving medicine to make you feel drowsy during the operation.  Side effects include throat pain, which can last from 1 to 2 weeks.

Removing the tonsils, can be an effective treatment, especially in some children.  Your doctor will be able to suggest removal of the tonsils, or waiting to see if the tonsils begin to shrink themselves which is a common trend in growing children.