| SLEEP APNEA TREATMENTS |
| Sleep Apnea Treatments By: Cherish Hamutoff Over 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea; a disorder in which sleep is repeatedly interrupted because of disrupted breathing. There are two types of sleep apnea: the most common is obstructive sleep apnea (the soft palate and muscles in the throat collapse and close off the airway), and the less common is central sleep apnea (the brain lacks proper control of breathing while sleeping). The signs of sleep apnea are chronic snoring, fatigue and insomnia. Sleep apnea causes disrupted sleep and oxygen starvation in the blood which can lead to: • Hypertension • Heart disease • Depression • Memory problems and difficulty concentrating • Diabetes • Irritability • Sexual dysfunction A sleep center can do an overnight study to help diagnose sleep apnea. Once diagnosed, treatment options include CPAP masks (continuous positive airway pressure), dental appliances and surgery. CPAP Masks CPAP masks are the most common treatment and are given to 60% to 70% of patients. This breathing mask keeps the airway open by continuously blowing pressurized air through a tube which is connected to a face mask covering the patient’s mouth and/or nose. These masks can be awkward and uncomfortable, so recent design changes including quieter and smaller air pumps, softer materials and humidifiers make the treatment more comfortable for the patient. Masks are available in a variety of shapes, styles and sizes to suit each patient. The CPAP is most effective when worn 6 to 8 hours a night, for the rest of the patient’s life. Treatment may yield immediate results, but may take up to two weeks for the maximum effect. The mask costs around $500 to $4000 but is generally covered through insurance. Dental Appliances Dental appliances are the second choice for treatment of sleep apnea. These devices push the lower jaw and tongue forward, thus creating more air space in the throat. Surgery Surgery is the final option, and is only used in extreme cases involving such issues as enlarged tonsils, nasal polyps and a deviated nasal septum. Treatments can remove excess tissue blocking the airway; surgically move the lower jaw forward; shrink nasal tissue with radiofrequency energy; or create scar tissue in the soft palate to reduce snoring. Other Options Sleep apnea may be improved by making lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking, limiting or avoiding alcohol, and lying on the side instead of the back. |