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What Can I Do To Help With Sleep Apnea?

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea obstructive (a condition where relaxing the muscles surrounding the throat and tongue results in the tissues blocking airflow to the lungs as you sleep, there are many options for treatment that you should discuss with your physician. The two most commonly utilized and effective options are continuous positive pressure (CPAP) as well as dental appliances also known as mouthguards.

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)

The most effective treatment option for sleep apnea that is obstructive, CPAP blows air with constant pressure through your throat during the night to ensure that your airways remain open as you are asleep. The treatment is carried out by using the CPAP machine, made up of three parts:

Mask that can be worn over your nose or the mouth and nose – and is secured by straps during rest.
Motor that is able to blow 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 with your CPAP along.

The benefits of CPAP include opening your airways while you sleep, lessening the snoring problem, improving your sleep quality 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 begin CPAP but getting comfortable with the device may take time. Some individuals have trouble sleeping for the first couple of nights following treatment.

Some side effects from CPAP treatment are usually minimal and can include:

Feelings of being confined by the mask on your face
Dry mouth or dry sores
Nasal congestion, runny nose nasal bleeding, sinusitis
The nose is irritated and itchy. nasal bridge
Stomach bloating, discomfort and stomach pain
Discomfort in chest muscles.

If you’re suffering from any of these issues, consult your physician. A modification to your CPAP machine could improve your comfort. Certain CPAP models have extra features like humidifiers that are heated to help reduce issues like drying in the airways. Other solutions include an air-filled mask that is cushioned and chin straps. the use of nasal saltwater sprays. Your doctor might have other options.
Mouth Devices

If you suffer from mild to moderate sleep apnea, and isn’t assisted by CPAP Oral appliances could be a good treatment alternative.

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The devices, which need to be installed by a dentist or an orthodontist, and worn inside the mouth during the night, include:

Mandibular advancement device (MAD). The most commonly utilized mouth device used to treat sleep apnea. MADs appear similar to the mouthguards used in sports. The devices slide over the lower and upper arch of the teeth and feature metal hinges that allow that the lower jaw can be moved towards the forward direction. Certain models, like the Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP), permit you to regulate the level of advancement.

Tongue retaining device. Utilized less often than MAD it is a splint which holds the tongue in order to keep an airway clear.

For people who suffer from moderate to mild sleep apnea and especially those who rest on their stomachs or backs Dental devices can enhance sleep and reduce the frequency and intensity of snoring. Additionally, patients are more likely to utilize their dental devices regularly as opposed to 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. But, the dental devices come with some risks, like a change in bite, tooth movement as well as discomfort, arthritis of TMJ (TMJ) dry lips and excessive salivation.

If you’re fitted with dental equipment, it is recommended that you be checked out early to determine if it’s functioning properly and regularly check-ups to determine if it is time for a replacement or adjustment. If you feel discomfort or changes to your bite the dentist or an orthodontist who fitted your device might be able to modify the device to fix the issue.

The most effective treatment for sleep apnea with obstruction is determined by several aspects, such as the severity of your issue as well as the structure and physical form of your airway, and any other medical conditions you might have in addition to your own personal preferences. It is important to work with your physician or sleep specialist to choose the most effective treatment for you.