What are the possible treatments for Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder. In this disorder, repeated interruptions in breathing disturb the sleep cycle. These disturbances are called apneas. It can have an impact on physical as well as mental health while also affecting performance and energy.

Sleep apnea is most common in patients who have small jaws. Age as well as obesity can also be a leading factor to the condition. It is also commonly seen in patients who frequently indulge in alcohol and sedatives

In this article, we will explore sleep apnea and its treatments.

Sleep apnea can range from mild snoring to complete blockage of breathing. The soft tissue in the airway collapses, and this obstructs the flow of oxygen. In such a case, surgery is required.

While looking at sleep apnea and its treatments, one should discuss the severity with a physician as mild to moderate cases require no surgery. They need lifestyle and diet modifications. Oral appliances with/without positive pressure air therapy also help in treatment.

When one has a severe case of sleep apnea, corrective jaw surgery is required. It is called distraction osteogenesis, which brings the tongue forward and opens up the passage of air. It is best to consult a surgeon along with a physician for an accurate diagnosis and prognosis.

The severity of the condition is determined by conducting a sleep study. If one is consuming excessive alcohol or other sedatives, these will be highlighted pre-surgery along with obesity. Obstructive sleep apnea surgery is usually accompanied by orthodontic treatment. A thorough examination of oral hygiene a week before the surgery is recommended.

There are two ways to perform surgery. In the first type, The jawbones are separated from the facial bone structure. The jawbones are repositioned using sterile titanium mini plates. It frees up the airway as the attached soft palate and tongue are brought forward. No external scars or stitches occur in this procedure.

The second type is by increasing the jaw bone length. The surgeon makes a small cut in the lower jaw bone, and fixes a metallic distractor device. The jaw bone length subsequently increases, and the attached tissues like the tongue shift forward, freeing the airway.

Your sleep physician will duly inform you about other additional surgical and medical procedures.

Aside from opening up your airway, this surgery will significantly improve your quality of life.

It also aids in:

• Reducing snoring

• Increasing productivity

• Memory and the daily cognitive process will be better

• Improving face profile

• Small jaws will be restructured

The surgery will not change the appearance of the person or solve other existing medical problems. Still, it will reduce many complications attached to sleep apnea such as heart disease and reduce the risk to life caused by daytime sleepiness, especially during driving.

1. The doctors for obstructive sleep apnea surgery in Delhi may evaluate your signs and symptoms, an examination, and tests. Your doctor might refer you to a sleep doctor in a sleep centre for further tests and evaluation. You'll have a physical examination, and your doctor will examine the back of your throat, mouth, and nose for extra tissue or abnormalities. Your doctor may measure your neck and waist circumference and check your blood pressure.

One should approach a qualified surgeon to perform this surgery to avoid any additional pain, injuries, or lifetime face alterations.

About Dr. Sanchaita Kohli Dr. Sanchaita Kohli, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with over 13 years of training and work experience at the country’s leading dental institute, Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Science.