A Unique Approach to Sleep Apnea

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Greenberg Orthodontics & TMJ

Sleep apnea is a condition which causes difficulties in breathing during sleep. The sufferer can wake up several times during the night, sometimes 30 times an hour without knowing it, and the condition is often accompanied by snoring.

I like to look at the big picture in my sleep apnea cases. As with any health problem, each case is different.  I believe that different treatments work for different people, and I’m excited about some new options available, like the Fotona laser.

Sleep Apnea Can Be Dangerous

Sleep apnea can be dangerous for your health. The patient isn’t usually aware of these disruptions, as they happen so quickly. They lead to drowsiness during the day, and other life interruptions caused by constant fatigue. Waking up several hundred times a night can cause your blood pressure to rise, which can lead to more serious consequences, such as heart attack or stroke.

It is unhealthy to have your breathing interrupted like this, snoring can be difficult for a household, and the repercussions of this can cause many undesirable consequences to your lifestyle and health. Fortunately there are a number of treatment options available for sleep apnea.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

The most commonly known treatment option for sleep apnea is the CPAP machine. It is a mask and apparatus that you wear while you sleep. It works by increasing the air pressure in your throat so that the airway doesn’t collapse upon exhaling, which is what causes the snoring.

CPAP machines can be quite effective for snoring and sleep apnea. Some people find the apparatus cumbersome and noisy, and it may difficult to fall asleep with the mask and machine attached. For light sleepers, this solution may not be a solution at all, but more of a hindrance. They can be very effective for those who can adjust to them however.

Another treatment option is a fitted mouthpiece, also to be worn during sleep. They work by repositioning the jaw or tongue so that the airway is not obstructed. These can be effective also. They may be more desirable than the mask, hose, and machine that a CPAP consists of, and may be sufficient for some cases.

A newer approach to treating sleep apnea is the Fotona laser. This is a non-surgical “rejuvenating” laser, which tightens the tissue in the palate by enhancing collagen. This widens out the airway, lessening the source of the airway obstruction.

Which Option is Best For You

I like to look at each sleep apnea case individually. Every patient is different, with different lifestyles, and different consequences as a result of their sleep apnea. A treatment that works beautifully for one patient may not be desirable or effective for another. And every patient deserves the personalized and unique care that is necessary to improve the quality of their sleep and lives.

There is no reason to keep suffering with difficulties in sleeping! Snoring can be difficult for entire families, and so can constant fatigue, which leads to other health issues. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, or think you may have a sleep apnea diagnosis, make an appointment with my office today. We offer free consultations to our first time visitors.