Of all sleep disorders, sleep apnea is one of the most serious. When you stop breathing during your sleep, it may result in less oxygen in your blood. Over time, this lack of oxygen can lead to serious health problems. Besides persistent sleepiness, apneas can lead to depression, diabetes and even death.
There are several sleep apnea treatment methods available to deal with mild, moderate and severe cases of the disorder. The first step toward a healthier life and a better night of sleep is reading this article for more information on treating sleep apnea.
There are four basic approaches to apnea treatment, and they can be used in conjunction with one another. The simplest method involves changing the circumstances which may be causing the condition. The patient is advised to lose weight, quit smoking, avoid alcohol and sedative drugs, have a regular sleep schedule and try to sleep only on their side.
The most common treatment option is using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) in the upper airway to support and hold the airway open. This involves wearing a CPAP mask over the nose.
The mask provides a supply of continuously flowing air via a flexible plastic hose from a CPAP machine. Studies have shown that when patients use CPAP, they not only slept better and were more alert during the day, but there were significant improvements in the size, shape and pumping action of their hearts.
The third apnea treatment option is the use of a dental splint to prevent the jaw and tongue from moving back and narrowing the airway. However, oral devices have not proved to be as effective as CPAP and the appliances can be uncomfortable. The fourth and most extreme form of treatment is surgery.
This kind of procedure involves removal of the part of the soft palate that hangs down in the back of the throat, as well as the tonsils if present, and other soft tissue if it is felt to be excessive. This procedure is usually reserved for patients with severe sleep apnea.
The toughest challenge in treating sleep apnea is getting the patient to comply. Because they often find the CPAP device cumbersome, many patients do not use it consistently or for long enough periods while sleeping. Researchers have found that improvements were maximized after 7.5 hours of use each night.
Patients who actively pursued treatment reported better sleep, fewer morning headaches, a better performance on the job and improved mood. The lifestyle modifications are also a great benefit. Losing weight, drinking in moderation and quitting smoking all improve your overall health.
Along with these methods for treating sleep apnea, there is research being done on other techniques and tools like implants. However, while a number of medical devices and procedures have received FDA clearance, sleep doctors aren't currently recommending them because there's not yet enough evidence to support their use. It's best to go with your doctor's recommendations and stay informed about advances in treatments becoming available.
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