If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea obstructive (a condition where tension in the muscles surrounding the throat and tongue results in the tissues blocking breathing in the lungs when you sleep, there are many treatments you can discuss with your physician. The two most commonly used and most effective treatments are Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and dental devices also known as mouthguards.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
The most effective method of treating sleep apnea with obstructive sleep, CPAP blows air with constant pressure into 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, which is comprised 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 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 relatively quiet. If you are traveling it is recommended that you carry your CPAP along.
The benefits of CPAP include the ability to keep your airways open as you sleep, lessening 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 rested and alert after you begin CPAP and get used to the device may take time. Many people experience difficulty sleeping through the first few nights following treatment.
The side effects of CPAP treatment are usually minimal and could include:
Feelings of being confined by the mask mask
Dry or sore mouth
Nasal congestion, runny nose nasal sinusitis or nosebleeds
Sores and irritations on the nostril bridge
Stomach bloating and pain
Discomfort in chest muscles.
If you’re experiencing any of these health issues, contact your doctor. A modification to your CPAP machine could improve your comfort. Certain CPAP models have extra features like heated humidifiers , which can help with issues like drying of airways. Other options include masks that are cushioned and chin straps. Nasal saltwater sprays. Your physician may offer additional options.
Mouth Devices
If you suffer from mild to moderate sleep apnea, and cannot tolerate or aren’t assisted by CPAP Oral appliances could be a viable treatment alternative.
These devices, which have to be installed 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 are similar to a mouth guard that is used in sports. They snap onto the lower and upper dental arches . They also have metal hinges that allow that the lower jaw can be moved towards the forward direction. Some, like the Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP), let you control the level of advancement.
Tongue retaining device. Utilized less often than MAD it is a splint which holds the tongue, keeping an airway clear.
For those with moderate to mild sleep apnea and especially those who lie on their stomachs or backs Dental devices can aid in sleep and decrease the frequency and volume of snoring. Additionally, patients 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. But, the dental devices come with some risks, such as a distorted bite, teeth moving and discomfort, arthritis of the temporol mandibular joints (TMJ) dry lips and excessive salivation.
For details on Mandibular Advancement Device Side Effects click here.
If you’re wearing 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 dentist who fitted the device might be able to adjust the device to address the issue.
The best method to treat 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 and your personal preferences. It is important to work with your physician or sleep specialist to choose the most effective treatment for you.