Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep Apnea is a chronic sleep disorder that interrupts one's breathing pattern. While sleeping, people suffering from sleep apnea stop breathing frequently. It makes the breath shallow and full of pauses. A person may stop breathing 30 times in an hour and on resuming breath may cause a snorting sound. Types of sleep apnea are:

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea
2. Central Sleep Apnea
3. Complex Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea or OSA is the most common and is caused by blockage of the airway. When the soft tissues of throat collapse, airway becomes narrow and breathing becomes shallow. It affects the people with narrow airway and low throat muscle tone.

Effects of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):

Sleep Apnea deprives the brain and body of oxygen. If left untreated, it causes:

• High blood pressure
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Arrhythmia
• Worsening of ADHD
• Depression
• Poor performance in daily activities
• Clenching, grinding, bruxism

Treatment Options:

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy
• Oral appliance therapy using a mandibular repositioning device(MRD)
• Lifestyle changes
• Surgical procedures

ResMed Narval CC Oral Appliance:

Offered by ResMed, Narval CC is a mandibular repositioning device that treats sleep apnea. It holds the jaw in a forward position, which moves the mandible to reduce airway collapse and help counter blocking and snoring.

It is a comfortable and light weight oral appliance that provides full freedom to talk and eat.

Are you at risk?

All snorers don't have OSA but all the people suffering from OSA snore. For engaging in a productive discussion with your doctor, complete the following questionnaire. You can ask your bed partner for help.

1. Do you snore?
2. Are you excessively tired during the day?
3. Have you been told you stop breathing while sleeping?
4. Do you have high blood pressure?
5. Is your neck size greater than 16” (female) or 17” (male)?
6. Have you fallen asleep while eating?
7. Are you overweight?
8. Do you have difficulty falling asleep?
9. Does your heart pound irregularly during the night?
10. Do you nap frequently and wake refreshed?

If you answered most of the questions with a yes, record your weight, height, and neck circumference and schedule an appointment right now with Dr. Toschi because you might be at risk. 408-978-7991