If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea obstructive which is a condition that causes relaxing the muscles that surround the throat and tongue can cause the tissues to block airflow to the lungs as you sleep, there are many options for treatment that you should discuss with your physician. One of them that is commonly utilized and effective options are continuous positive pressure (CPAP) as well as dental appliances such as mouth guards.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
The most effective method of treating sleep apnea with obstructive sleep, CPAP blows air with constant pressure through your throat during the night to ensure that your airways remain open during your are asleep. The treatment is carried out by using the CPAP machine, made up of three major components:
Mask that can be worn over your nose or the mouth and nose – and is secured by straps as you rest.
Motor that produces air
A large tube, also known as a cannula that connects the mask to the motor
CPAP devices are lightweight, small and quite quiet. If you plan to travel it is recommended that you carry your CPAP along.
The benefits of CPAP include opening your airways while you sleep, helping to reduce breathing problems, improving quality of sleep as well as reducing the amount of sleepiness you experience during the day, and lower blood pressure.
Though you’ll likely be more refreshed and alert when you have started CPAP but getting comfortable with the machine can take time. Many people experience difficulty sleeping for the first couple of nights after treatment.
Some side effects from CPAP usage are typically minor and can include:
Feelings of being confined by the mask mask
Dry mouth or dry sores
Nasal congestion, nasal runny nose, nasal bleeding, sinusitis
Sores and irritations on the nasal bridge
Stomach bloating, discomfort and stomach pain
Discomfort in chest muscles.
If you’re experiencing one of these issues, consult your physician. A modification to your CPAP machine could improve your comfort. Certain CPAP models have extra features, such as humidifiers that are heated to help reduce issues like drying of airways. Other options include masks that are cushioned or chin straps as well as Nasal saltwater sprays. Your doctor might have other options.
Mouth Devices
If you suffer from mild or moderate obstructive sleep apnea that you isn’t treated with CPAP or oral appliances, they could be a viable treatment alternative.
These devices, which have to be fitted by a dentist , or an orthodontist, and worn inside the mouth at night . They include:
Mandibular advancement device (MAD). The most commonly used device to treat sleep apnea. MADs appear similar to a mouth guard that is used in sports. The devices slide over the lower and upper dental arches . They also have metal hinges that allow that the lower jaw can be pushed towards the forward direction. Certain models, like the Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP), permit you to regulate the amount of advance.
Tongue retaining device. It is less frequently used than MAD the device acts as an splint that keeps your tongue, keeping your airways open.
For people who suffer from moderate to light sleep apnea, especially those who rest on their stomachs or backs Dental devices can enhance sleep and reduce the frequency and volume of snoring. In addition, they are more likely to utilize their dental appliances frequently rather than CPAP.
Dental devices have also been shown to control sleep apnea long term compared to uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), the standard surgical procedure for apnea, in which the surgeon removes soft tissue from the back of the throat. However, dental appliances do have their own drawbacks such as a distorted bite, teeth moving and discomfort, arthritis of TMJ (TMJ) dry lips and excessive salivation.
If you’re fitted with an appliance for your teeth, you must be checked out early to determine if it’s functioning and regular checkups to see if you can get a new or adjusted. If you are experiencing discomfort or changes to your bite the dentist or the dentist who fitted the device might be able to adjust the device to address the issue.
The most effective treatment for sleep apnea with obstruction is determined by several aspects, such as the severity of the problem as well as the structure and physical form of your airway, any other medical issues that you may be suffering from and your own personal preferences. It is recommended to consult with your physician or sleep specialist to choose the most effective treatment for you.