Obstructive Sleep Apnea

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition where the upper airway becomes partially obstructed during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing and reduced oxygen levels in the blood. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) specifically involves repeated pauses in breathing and decreased oxygen saturation throughout the night.

Approximately 20% of adults experience mild OSA, while 7% suffer from moderate to severe cases. This condition can also affect up to 3% of children. Fortunately, most health insurance plans cover treatments for obstructive sleep apnea.

Potential Signs of Sleep Apnea

Signs that may indicate sleep apnea include:

• Snoring with Breathing Pauses: Notable gaps in breathing accompanied by snoring.
• Daytime Sleepiness: Excessive tiredness throughout the day.
• Gasping or Choking: Waking up gasping or choking during sleep.
• Restless Sleep: Frequent tossing and turning during the night.
• Cognitive Issues: Difficulty with concentration, poor decision-making, and memory problems.
• Irritability: Mood swings and increased irritability.
• High Blood Pressure: Elevated blood pressure levels.
• Chest Pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest at night.
• Depression: Symptoms of depression.
• Weight Issues: Overweight or obesity.
• Large Neck Size: Neck circumference greater than 17 inches in men or 16 inches in women.
• Airway Congestion: Congestion or obstruction in the airway.
• Morning Headaches: Persistent headaches upon waking.
• Reduced Libido: Decreased sex drive.
• Frequent Nighttime Urination: Frequent trips to the bathroom during the night.

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, it’s advisable to visit Alpine Surgical Arts. Dr. Haghighi or Dr. Rowan will review your medical history and discuss your sleep patterns with family members.

A comprehensive physical examination may be complemented by a 3D CBCT scan to evaluate the airway. If necessary, Dr. Haghighi and Dr. Rowan might recommend a sleep study, known as polysomnography. This test monitors your sleep patterns and blood oxygen levels to confirm OSA and determine its severity. Sometimes, a trial with a CPAP machine might also be conducted to assess its impact on your condition.

Treatment For Sleep Apnea

For moderate-to-severe cases of sleep apnea, the primary treatment often involves the use of a CPAP machine. This device provides a steady stream of pressurized air to keep the airway open during sleep.

It's important to understand that while CPAP therapy can manage sleep apnea effectively, it does not cure the condition. Stopping CPAP use can result in the return of symptoms and pose additional health risks. Long-term compliance can be challenging, with studies showing that regular use beyond five years may drop significantly.

Dental and Oral Devices to Treat Sleep Apnea

Oral appliances are commonly used to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea with good results. These devices are similar to mouthguards and are worn inside the mouth. Some appliances work by repositioning the lower jaw and expanding the airway, while others are fixed around the head and chin.

Although these devices can manage OSA effectively, they do not offer a permanent cure. Discontinuing use of the appliance may lead to a resurgence of symptoms and increased health risks.

Surgical Treatment For Sleep Apnea

At Alpine Surgical Arts, Dr. Haghighi and Dr. Rowan work closely with patients to tailor surgical procedures to their specific needs. Various surgical treatments are available for OSA, targeting different areas of the upper airway. Collaboration with otolaryngologists and sleep specialists often enhances the outcomes.

Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA)

This procedure involves repositioning the upper and lower jaws, as well as the chin, to open the airway and move the tongue forward. MMA also addresses issues with the nasal airway, such as septal deviations or enlarged turbinates. Unlike temporary solutions, this surgical approach offers a potential permanent solution for OSA, with success rates exceeding 90% in studies.