Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, can lead to serious complications, including exhaustion, depression, high blood pressure, and even stroke and heart attack. As a result, we recommend patients seek treatment for OSA as soon as possible. We have a number of options for treating OSA and helping you rest better.
Oral Appliances
We offer a variety of oral appliances to help address the problem. An oral appliance is a custom-made device that is worn while you sleep. Similar in appearance to a nightguard, the device actually repositions your jaw, moving it forward slightly to prevent soft tissue collapse from blocking airflow during sleep. For many people, this is the preferred treatment option. We may use the appliances alone or in conjunction with the CPAP machine.
CPAP Machines
The CPAP machine also ensures uninterrupted breathing. The patient will wear a mask over the nose and mouth connected via a hose to a machine. The machine pumps air through the hose and into the nose and mouth, making sure breathing is uninterrupted throughout the night.
Other Treatment Options
You can actually make several changes to your lifestyle to reduce the severity of your sleep apnea symptoms. If you smoke, we recommend quitting. We also suggest avoiding alcohol before going to bed. You can lose weight and sleep on your side or stomach instead of your back to prevent air obstruction. Finally, you can make sure your bedroom offers the perfect environment for sleeping by keeping the room dark, cool, and free of distractions, such as TVs or computers. If you have any questions about our treatment options, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, then please contact our office today.
