Managing Sleep Apnea: Effective Treatment Strategies From Qualified Specialists

Sleep apnea is a common yet frequently underdiagnosed sleep disorder that can significantly impact your quality of life. It’s characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, leading to fragmented sleep and daytime fatigue. Fortunately, effective treatment options are available. Understanding the various types, symptoms, and treatment options can empower you to seek help and improve your overall well-being.

At Atlanta Sleep and Wellness in Newnan, GA, we specialize in providing personalized treatment options for individuals suffering from sleep apnea. No matter what you’re dealing with, Dr. Mindy Gil and our team of experts are here to help you achieve a restful night’s sleep and improve your overall quality of life.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where your breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. It occurs when your upper airway becomes blocked or collapses, causing short pauses in your breathing. These interruptions can lead to decreased blood oxygen levels, disrupted sleep cycles, and excessive daytime sleepiness. The severity of sleep apnea can range from mild to severe obstructive sleep apnea.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are three primary types of sleep apnea.

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common type, OSA, occurs when the muscles at the back of your throat relax too much, blocking the airflow.
• Central Sleep Apnea: This type occurs when the brain does not send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
• Complex Sleep Apnea: A combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

If you suspect that you may be suffering from sleep apnea, look out for these sleep apnea symptoms:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
• Difficulty staying asleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating during the day

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea from a sleep specialist at Atlanta Sleep and Wellness in Newnan, GA.

Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Evaluation

The first step in determining the severity of your sleep apnea is a sleep study. During this study, your sleep patterns and airway pressure are monitored, helping our team assess the severity of sleep apnea and determine the most effective treatment options for you. This evaluation may be performed in a sleep lab or through a home sleep study.

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea

Several risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing sleep apnea, including:

• Body weight: Excess weight can contribute to airway obstruction.
• Age: Sleep apnea is more common in adults, especially over the age of 40.
• Gender: Men are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea, though the risk for women increases after menopause.
• Family history: Genetics can play a role in sleep apnea.
• High blood pressure: Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to elevated blood pressure.
• Heart failure: Sleep apnea is more common in individuals with heart failure.
• Lifestyle choices: Smoking and alcohol use can increase the risk of sleep apnea.

Anatomical factors, such as a naturally narrow airway or enlarged tonsils, can also increase susceptibility.

Snoring: Why it Should Be Taken Seriously 

Snoring is more than just a sound that occurs during sleep. It is a medical disease that should be diagnosed by a doctor and then treated. Snoring has been associated with sleep deprivation, daytime drowsiness, irritability, lack of focus and decreased libido. Loud snoring has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

It is estimated that about 57% of men, and 40% of women in the United States snore. It is not uncommon for people to ignore this phenomenon; however, snoring could be a huge indicator of obstructive sleep apnea. 

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

Treatment for sleep apnea aims to keep the airway open during sleep, enabling uninterrupted breathing and restoring restful sleep patterns. This approach often combines lifestyle changes with specific therapies tailored to the patient’s needs and the severity of the condition.

CPAP Therapy

For many people, CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is the most effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. A CPAP machine uses a hose connected to a mask or nosepiece to deliver a continuous flow of airway pressure, keeping the upper airway open while you sleep. If you suffer from moderate or severe sleep apnea, a CPAP machine may be recommended to ensure you get the oxygen your body needs.

Oral Appliance Therapy

These devices are worn in the mouth and work by repositioning the lower jaw to help keep the airway open. Oral appliances are often used for mild obstructive sleep apnea or as an alternative to CPAP for those who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has approved oral appliance therapy (OAT) as a first line treatment for patients diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA. The AASM also recommends oral appliances for patients with severe OSA, who are unable to tolerate or cannot wear CPAP devices.

Myofunctional Therapy

Myofunctional therapy is a specialized exercise-based treatment designed to strengthen and retrain the muscles of the mouth and throat. By improving muscle function and coordination, it can enhance breathing, promote proper tongue posture, and support overall oral health.

The Importance of Seeking Treatment

If left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and stroke. By addressing sleep apnea early, you can improve your blood oxygen levels, reduce your daytime sleepiness, and avoid the long-term effects of untreated sleep apnea.

How Atlanta Sleep and Wellness Can Help

Dr. Mindy Gil, a highly qualified dentist with extensive experience in treating sleep apnea, plays a vital role in our care team. As an expert in dental solutions for sleep disorders, Dr. Gil is passionate about improving her patients’ lives through innovative treatments. She specializes in crafting custom oral appliances designed to reposition the lower jaw and prevent airway obstruction. 

Dr. Gil’s unique perspective and hands-on approach ensure that every treatment plan is as effective and comfortable as possible. Her dedication to improving sleep health makes her an invaluable partner in managing mild obstructive sleep apnea, moderate sleep apnea, and beyond.

Take the First Step Toward a Restful Night Sleep

If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea or have been diagnosed with the condition, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact our Newnan, GA office today at (770) 400-9997 to schedule an appointment. Take the first step toward better sleep and a healthier life.