You no longer have to let sleep apnea take control of your life. There are treatment options available so that you can get a good night’s sleep without waking up at night because you can’t breathe or because you’re snoring. Our doctor can discuss options that don’t involve wearing a CPAP mask if you don’t want to sleep with something over your face at night.
One of the things that you can start with is an oral appliance that is worn in your mouth while you’re sleeping. This is similar to a night guard for those who clench or grind their teeth at night. The appliance is comfortable to wear and is fitted for your mouth. It will keep your airway open while you’re sleeping without you knowing that it’s in your mouth for an extended period of time. While wearing the appliance, your tongue is kept from falling back over your airway while your jaw is gently pushed forward as well to keep your airway open.
If you have excess tissue in your throat that blocks your airway and other treatment options have been explored, then surgery might be an option to consider so that you can sleep better despite sleep apnea. Your doctor will examine the tissue and your condition to determine the best method of surgery for your needs. While most surgeries are minimally invasive, there are a few procedures that are a bit more detailed, especially if you have a significant amount of tissue in your throat.
Another way to treat sleep apnea is through weight loss. This will only work if you’re overweight as the excess weight that you have puts added pressure on your throat and neck. Although weight loss might not completely correct sleep apnea, it’s a place to start until you can work with your doctor to explore other options. You can also try positional therapy. Instead of sleeping on your back so that your tongue falls back over your throat and so that there’s more pressure put on your throat and neck, consider sleeping on your side as this will take that pressure away. You can wear a device around your waist and back that will keep you from turning over at night so that you stay on your side, keeping your airway open.
Visit Advanced Ear, Nose & Throat Associates if you can’t get a good night’s sleep because you have sleep apnea. You can meet with one of the doctors at our practice in Atlanta who can explore your options and provide the best treatment for your needs. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!