1. DIAGNOSIS
Your symptoms and sleep history are asked by your healthcare professional to diagnose whether you have sleep apnea or not. A person who lives with you will be able to provide a clearer picture. You might be referred to a sleep centre. A further evaluation may be recommended by the sleep specialist. By evaluation, it means that you will be monitored overnight, especially if you are suspected of having CSA. As part of Sleep Apnea Treatment, proper diagnosis plays a crucial role in identifying the exact type and severity of the condition. At times, you might have an option for home sleep testing. If you have OSA, then your doctor might refer you to an ENT to eliminate the blockage in your nose or throat.
2. TREATMENT
Changes in lifestyle maybe recommended by your healthcare professional for mild cases of OSA that might include quitting smoking or losse weight. You need to change the position of your sleep. To treat your nasal allergies, if you have any, your health advisor would recommend you to treat it first and then proceeding with the other. There are a number of treatment options available for you if it doesn’t improve. Blocked airway can open up with the help of certain devices. For other cases, surgery is recommended.
3. THERAPIES FOR OSA
Through positive airway pressure, OSA is treated successfully for many people. It is also known as oral devices, PAP, or therapies. They help in preventing stops in breathing, if any, and make you alert during the day.
- CPAP (Continuous positive airway pressure): When you sleep, a machine delivers air pressure via a mask. When compared to the air surrounding you, the air pressure through CPAP is somewhat better. Your apnea or snoring is prevented when the great pressure keeps your upper airway passages open. Few people find it difficult and not comfortable even though it is one of the most common and reliable method of treating sleep apnea. With time and practice, people learn to adjust to the tension of the straps and find it a secure fit.
- Other airway pressure devices: You can use a different type of airway pressure device that can automatically adjust pressure when you are sleeping called auto-CPAP. More pressure is provided by these devices when you inhale and less when you exhale. This process is termed Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BPAP).
- Oral Appliances: Another option would be to wear an oral appliance that is designed to keep your throat open. CPAP is considered more effective in opening the airway, but oral appliances might be easier to use. At times, it is designed in a way to open your throat while bringing your jaw forward. This relieves snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea.
- Myofunctional Therapy: These exercises strengthen the muscles in your upper airways, which lessens the narrowing of your airway when you sleep. You can perform these exercises with other OSA therapies.
