Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that influences many people. Those most at risk are older males and obese individuals.
Common symptoms of sleep apnea are snoring, fatigue as a result of poor sleep patterns, and mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.
People who suspect they have a sleep disorder can order an at-home sleep test from a healthcare provider who specializes in sleep apnea. CPAP and oral appliance therapy (OAT) are two non-invasive treatments for sleep apnea.
If you have experienced any symptoms of sleep apnea, or your bed partner has spotted that you stop breathing at night, schedule a consultation at Houston Sleep Solutions. We can order an at-home sleep test or a night at a sleep clinic for observation.
When to see a sleep disorder specialist:
It is important to seek care from a sleep disorder professional if you have any type of sleep disorder. For example, if an individual with sleep apnea was unable to make it through the day without a nap because they were too fatigued or depressed they should seek professional care. Sleep apnea is not simply an annoyance, it’s a serious health threat.
When does sleep apnea require surgery?
In some cases, CPAP and OAT don’t prevent lapses in breathing during the night. In other cases, the patient can’t tolerate either treatment. In such cases, the physician may recommend surgery.
There are several surgeries for sleep apnea. The type of surgery recommended depends on which anatomical problem is obstructing the airway.
A UPPP (uvulopalatopharyngoplasty)
This is the most common sleep apnea surgery. It requires removing unnecessary tissue from the airways or obstruction site. Additionally, sometimes the tonsils are removed.
Nasal surgery
Obstruction can be caused by three areas of the nose: the septum, the nasal valve, and the turbinates. There are surgeries that can solve the problems caused by each of these areas. The most common surgeries are a septoplasty or a turbinate reduction.
Maxillomandibular surgery
This surgery requires breaking the jaw in order to reset it in such a way that it creates a larger airway to breathe through. This extreme treatment is only used in a very small percentage of sleep apnea cases.
The good news is that sleep apnea is treatable through a variety of options such as OAT, CPAP machine, or surgical procedures. Talk to Doctor Montz at Houston Sleep Solutions if you have sleep apnea or suspect you have sleep apnea. We will determine the most appropriate treatment option.
Contact Houston Sleep Solutions:
281-485-4829
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1769 S. Friendswood Dr. Ste 107
Friendswood, Texas
77546
