Do I Have Alternatives to Sleep Apnea Surgery?

Obstructive sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects roughly 18 million Americans; however, it is estimated that 80% of those with it remain undiagnosed. If you are among those who have recently been diagnosed with it, you may be considering sleep apnea surgery. Although it may seem like a quick and easy fix to restore your sleep quality and to protect your health, it may not be the best solution. Instead, you may want to explore noninvasive options.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder that is most commonly caused by an obstruction of the airway. While you sleep, the soft tissues in the back of your throat can collapse, causing your air passages to become narrowed to the point you stop breathing several times throughout the night for as long as one minute each episode.

Each pause in breathing not only interrupts your sleep quality, but it will also impact your general health. To prevent the pauses in breathing, there is a surgical solution, but it is not always the best answer.

Should I Get Surgery for Sleep Apnea?

The most extreme treatment option for the disorder involves surgery. A surgeon will go in and remove excess soft tissue. While this may seem like an effective solution, research shows that 50% of those who have the procedure will eventually have the soft tissues grow back due to the suction and friction caused by snoring. Not only is it ineffective long-term, but it is also a very painful procedure.

Do I Have Other Treatment Options?

Instead of surgery, you have a couple different options for sleep apnea therapy. Among the most preferred solution involves the use of an oral appliance. This is a custom-fit device that is like an athletic mouthguard. Instead of protecting your teeth, it repositions your lower jaw forward. By doing so, it keeps your airways open to prevent pauses in breathing. It has shown to be effective for treating mild to moderate cases of the condition while also offering a high compliance rate.

If an oral appliance is not effective, you can choose a CPAP machine. It delivers a steady stream of air through a mask that is worn over your nose while you sleep. The gentle pressure keeps your airways open to allow you to maintain your oxygen level.

In some cases, it may be recommended that you use a combination of both therapies before turning to a surgical approach.

Breathe Easier Today!

If you suffer from sleep apnea, you do not have to turn to surgery to breathe easier. Discover your treatment options today!

About Dr. Deborah A. Romack

In 1998, Dr. Deborah A. Romack earned her dental degree. She continued her education in advanced areas of dental care and specialty services, including sleep apnea. She offers the latest solutions to treat the disorder. If you have the condition, she can help restore your health and your quality of life. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.