Sleep apnea is a common chronic condition that has serious health risks. It occurs when the airway becomes obstructed and the person wakes up partially from sleep in order to breathe. The symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, abrupt awakenings during the night, feeling tired during the day, and experiencing irritability and mood changes. If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase one’s risk for serious health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and depression.
In Bend, Oregon, there are a variety of treatment options available for individuals with sleep apnea. Each option comes with benefits and drawbacks, and the best course of action may vary depending on the individual. In this article, we will discuss some of the sleep apnea treatment options that are currently available in Bend, Oregon.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
One of the most common treatments for sleep apnea is the use of continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP therapy. This type of treatment involves wearing a mask that is connected to a machine that delivers pressurized air to the individual’s airway in order to keep it open and prevent breathing disruptions. CPAP therapy is generally effective at treating sleep apnea, and it is considered a good choice for individuals who have been diagnosed with moderate to severe sleep apnea. However, some individuals may find CPAP therapy to be uncomfortable or difficult to use consistently.
Oral Appliances
Another option for treating sleep apnea is the use of oral appliances. These devices are placed in the mouth in order to reposition the jaw and keep the airway open. Oral appliances are a great choice for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea, and they are considered to be more comfortable than CPAP therapy. However, it is important to work with a dentist who is experienced with treating sleep apnea in order to ensure that the oral appliance is fitted correctly and is effective.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be recommended as a treatment option for sleep apnea. Surgical procedures that are used to treat sleep apnea include uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, maxillomandibular advancement surgery, and tracheostomy. These procedures work by removing or reshaping structures in the airway in order to stop or reduce breathing disruptions. While surgery can be a very effective treatment option for sleep apnea, it is typically only recommended if CPAP therapy and oral appliances have failed. Additionally, it is important to understand that surgery comes with its own risks and side effects.
Lifestyle Changes
In addition to the above-mentioned treatment options, making certain lifestyle changes can help to manage sleep apnea. Losing weight, quitting smoking, and eliminating alcohol and certain medications can all help to reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea and improve an individual’s quality of sleep. Additionally, practicing good sleep hygiene, such as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, can also help to reduce the frequency of sleep apnea episodes.
Conclusion
It is important to work closely with a qualified healthcare provider in Bend, Oregon in order to determine the best treatment option for sleep apnea. A healthcare provider will be able to help determine the severity of the individual’s sleep apnea, as well as work with them to develop a comprehensive plan for managing their condition. By taking advantage of the available treatment options, individuals in Bend, Oregon can effectively manage their sleep apnea and reduce the risk of developing serious health conditions.
