A common health condition, sleep apnea is a blockage in the throat’s upper airway. With obstructive sleep apnea, the blockage significantly reduces the flow of air. On the other hand, if the brain fails to send the appropriate signals that support breathing, central sleep apnea is likely the cause. For both types of sleep apnea, sleep studies can provide a clear picture of the root cause concerning this condition that affects 22 million Americans each year.
For some people, the natural body structure is the cause of sleep apnea–that includes obesity, endocrine system conditions, oversized tonsils and neuromuscular conditions. From age to race and genetic disorders, the risk factors are diverse. For some, a simple change to lifestyle can significantly lessen the symptoms of sleep apnea and lead to more restful sleep. The good news? An easy screening can provide necessary insight. A few questions that a healthcare provider may ask during a sleep apnea screening include the following:
- Has your partner observed any unusual breathing patterns while you sleep?
- Do you find yourself very tired while driving or during the middle of the day?
During a screening, if there are any signs of sleep apnea, your doctor will likely refer you to a sleep specialist who can run additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.
The best remedy to sleep apnea is a change in lifestyle, which may include adopting a diet that better supports the heart, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and cutting back on alcohol. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe one of various mouth devices that can reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea and encourage easier breathing.
Commonly Used Sleep Apnea Devices
A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device blows air down the throat to keep the airways open during sleep. The machine includes three major parts: a mask, which fits over the nose; a motor, which keeps the air blowing; and a cannula tube, which connects the mouth piece with the motor.
Another option as an oral appliance for mild sleep apnea. The mandibular advancement device (MAD) is the more commonly used mouth device for sleep apnea. It resembles a sports mouthguard that covers that upper and lower teeth to hold the jaw in place and keep it from blocking the airway. Operating in a similar fashion, a tongue retaining device is a splint that holds the tongue in place during sleep. For mild sleep apnea, mouth pieces may be more appropriate than a CPAP device.
In more severe cases when a CPAP or other mouth devices are ineffective, your health care provider may prescribe surgery. If enlarged tonsils are the culprit, a tonsillectomy could course correct a blocked airway. Jaw adjustments are also potential surgical fixes for more serious cases.
If you think you may be having trouble breathing at night, don’t wait to see a healthcare provider. Sleep apnea could be a sign of a more serious medical condition. But in many minor cases, a simple mouth guard could make all the difference in the quality of your sleep and your overall lifestyle. Have questions about sleep apnea? Let’s talk about it!