New Year, New Sleep: Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Suffering from sleep apnea? Make this the year you turn your sleep around by finding the best treatment for you!

Sleep apnea, marked by interrupted breathing during sleep, affects millions of people worldwide. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease and impaired cognitive function. The good news is there are many treatment options to try.

For mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), simple lifestyle changes can make a huge difference. ENT doctors may recommend weight loss, avoiding alcohol before bedtime and sleeping on one’s side to reduce the impact of gravity on your airway obstruction. Addressing nasal congestion with over-the-counter saline sprays or prescribed medications can also improve airflow at night.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is a common and highly effective treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea. At night, a mask connected to a CPAP machine is worn. The machine delivers constant air pressure, keeping the airway open during sleep. A properly fitting mask is necessary, so an ENT will work to find the right one for you to ensure the best fit and comfort.

For those who can’t tolerate CPAP, oral appliances can be an alternative. These devices reposition the jaw or tongue to prevent airway collapse. Myofunctional therapy to address poor tongue posture or weak throat muscles can also be helpful.

When structural issues contribute to sleep apnea, surgical intervention may be necessary. Deviated septums can be corrected, or tonsils and adenoids can be removed. Excess tissue in the throat may be taken out to widen the airway.