People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. The term “sleep apnea” refers to breathing difficulties and even complete lack of breathing periodically during the night. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and obstructs airflow. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp. Some patients have obstructions that are less severe called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). In either case, the individuals suffer many of the same symptoms.
Common snoring can also be an indication of problems with nocturnal breathing patterns. Although snoring may not be as dramatic as apnea, it is still an indication that there may be a problem with breathing. Unless they are told by their sleeping partner, most people are unaware that they have any nocturnal problems. Instead, those with breathing difficulties at night may experience daytime symptoms such as drowsiness, feeling headaches or “hung over” when waking in the morning.
In order to treat snoring or obstructive sleep apnea, success resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation. If a sleep study is performed that shows nocturnal breathing is compromised, there are several treatment options available. In our office, many complaints of snoring and milder apnea cases can be resolved by the fabrication of a simple appliance worn on the teeth at night. This appliance helps to keep the jaw in a forward position in order to open the airway and reduce the obstruction. In more severe cases that cannot be solved with simple appliances, physicians often recommend a CPAP machine to assist breathing at night. The CPAP machine uses constant pressure through a nasal mask to force air into the breathing passage and aid in the flow of air during sleep.
Other treatment options for apnea include surgical treatments which are provided by oral and maxillofacial surgeons or ENT specialists.
Although snoring is a nuisance that disturbs others, it can be treated very simply with oral appliances. However, obstructive sleep apnea is a very serious condition that needs careful attention, treatment and medical management.