Do you suffer from sleep apnea? If so, you are most likely interested in finding a solution to the problem that will enable you to sleep better without having to undergo surgery. Thankfully, there are many non-surgical options for treating sleep apnea. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most effective non-surgical solutions for sleep apnea.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes brief pauses in breathe during sleep. These pauses in breathing can be caused by obstructions in the airway. Sleep apnea is typically categorized into three separate types: obstructive, central, and mixed. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type and it occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax. Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain does not send the proper signals to the muscles that are involved in breathing. Mixed sleep apnea is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.
Non-Surgical Solutions for Sleep Apnea
There are many types of non-surgical solutions that can be used to treat sleep apnea. Some of the most effective options include:
Oral Appliances
Oral appliances, also known as dental devices, are one of the most popular non-surgical solutions for sleep apnea. These devices are typically custom-designed to fit in the mouth and help to keep the airways open during sleep. Oral appliances can help to reduce symptoms of sleep apnea by keeping the jaw in a forward position and preventing the tongue and soft palate from falling back and blocking the airways.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
CPAP is a treatment that involves the use of a special machine that delivers continuous air pressure throughout the night to keep the airways open and prevent sleep apnea episodes. The machine is connected to a mask that is worn over the nose and mouth and it can be adjusted to the appropriate level of air pressure to achieve the desired result. CPAP is an effective treatment for sleep apnea but some people find it uncomfortable to use.
Positional Therapy
Positional therapy involves taking steps to ensure that the person with sleep apnea sleeps in the proper position. It is important to keep the head and neck aligned so that the airways remain open. Special pillows and body cushions are available to help people with sleep apnea achieve the proper sleeping position.
Lifestyle Changes
Making certain changes to one’s lifestyle can also help to reduce sleep apnea symptoms. For example, avoiding alcohol, smoking, and eating large meals before bedtime can help to prevent the relaxation of the muscles in the throat that can lead to episodes of sleep apnea. Losing weight can also help to reduce symptoms of sleep apnea in some people.
Conclusion
Surgery is not the only option for those who suffer from sleep apnea. There are many non-surgical solutions that can be used to effectively treat the disorder. Some of the most popular non-surgical options for sleep apnea treatment include: oral appliances, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), positional therapy, and making certain lifestyle changes. All of these non-surgical solutions can help you breathe better and get a good night’s sleep.