Only recently have the full effects of sleep apnea been recognized to uncover just how deadly this disorder can be.
Research into the condition continues to uncover more important information, linking sleep apnea to several serious side effects, including: oArrhythmias oStroke oHeart attack oDecreased growth hormone production oInadequate school or work performance oGreater incidence of traffic and workplace accidents Most individuals afflicted with sleep apnea are not even aware of the problem.
Those living with or sleeping with the sufferer may be the first to notice something is wrong.
Classic sleep apnea symptoms include: oDaytime fatigue oMorning headaches oRestless sleeping patterns oMorning sore throat oChoking or gasping during sleep oInsomnia oHeavy, deep snoring oNight sweats oDry mouth oMood changes oHeartburn The CPAP Machine For some sleep apnea patients, alterations in lifestyle may be all that is needed.
For example, overweight individuals can find relief simply by losing the extra weight.
Smokers will see a reduction in their symptoms when they quit smoking.
For some, however, greater intervention isneeded, and the CPAP machine, an acronym for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, is perhaps the most recognized appliance for treating sleep apnea that does not require surgical intervention.
CPAP is the first line of defense in treating moderate to severe sleep apnea, delivering continuous air pressure via a mask placed over the nose during sleep.
The mask delivers constant gentle air pressure to maintain open upper airways and prevent apnea and snoring.
Some patients find the mask placed on their face during sleep is intolerable.
Your doctor can suggest modifications for greater comfort, or you may be able to try other types of airway pressure machines, like the BiPAP or ASV to get the relief you need.
Another option is the oral appliance which brings the jaw forward to open the airway and relieve snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea.
When Surgery is the Last Resort Serious sleep apnea may require surgery to remove excess throat and nose tissue that may be blocking the airway.
Several surgical options are: oLaser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty or radiofrequency ablation: A procedure to remove tissue in the back of the throat oUvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): A procedure to remove tissue from the rear of the mouth, the top of the throat, the tonsils and the adenoids, stopping the vibrations that cause snoring.
UPPP is performed under general anesthetic in a hospital oMaxillomandibular Advancement.
A procedure to enlarge the space behind the tongue and soft palate by moving the jaw forward from the face bones oTracheostomy.
A procedure that creates an opening in the front of your neck through which a metal or plastic tube is inserted allowing the unobstructed passage of air.
For severe cases only.
oNasal surgery: A procedure to remove polyps or straightens a crooked deviated nasal septum which may be blocking air flow oTonsils and Adenoids Removal: Removing enlarged tonsils and adenoids is sometimes enough to alleviate sleep apnea The treatment of heart or neuromuscular disorders, including the use of supplemental oxygen while sleeping can also be of great help.
Individuals at risk for sleep apnea should be tested and treated to minimize the risks and ending life-disrupting and potentially life-ending symptoms.