Do I Have Sleep Apnea?
People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat, blocking the upper airway and stopping 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.
Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.
Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome
Some patients have obstructions that are less severe and have Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). These individuals suffer many of the same symptoms as in OSA..
The first step in treatment is your recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation.
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Sleep Apnea Assessment
In addition to a detailed history, the doctors will assess the anatomic relationships in the maxillofacial region. With cephalometic (head) x-ray analysis, the doctors can ascertain the level of obstruction. Sometimes a nose and throat examination is done with a flexible fiberoptic camera. To see the degree of the affect of this condition on the heart and oxygen levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
There are several treatment options available. An initial treatment may consist of using a nasal CPAP machine that delivers pressurized oxygen through a nasal mask to limit obstruction at night. One of the surgical options is an uvulo-palato-pharyngo-plasty (UPPP), which is performed in the back of the soft palate and throat. A similar procedure is sometimes done with the assistance of a laser and is called a laser assisted uvulo-palato-plasty (LAUPP). In other cases, a radio-frequency probe is utilized to tighten the soft palate. These procedures are usually performed under light intravenous sedation in the office. Specialized bite appliances are also used.
In more complex cases, the bones of the upper and lower jaw may be repositioned to increase the size of the airway (orthognathic surgery). This procedure is done in the hospital under general anesthesia and requires a one to two day in-patient stay.
OSA is a very serious condition that needs careful attention and treatment. Most major medical plans offer coverage for diagnosis and treatment.