Sleep Apnea Surgery
Treatment for a better night's sleep
Do you find yourself waking up tired and groggy, despite spending hours in bed? Do you struggle to get a good night’s rest? You might have sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people around the world.
If this describes you, you’re not alone — and help is available. The ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists at West Jefferson Medical Center are experts in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. Together, we can help you regain restful nights and revitalized days.
Understanding sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. These interruptions in breathing can happen multiple times throughout the night, leading to fragmented and poor-quality sleep.
There are three primary types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) — This is the most common form, occurring when the throat muscles relax too much during sleep, blocking the airway.
- Central sleep apnea (CSA) — This less common form is caused by the brain failing to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
- Complex sleep apnea syndrome — Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this type is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.
Common symptoms of sleep apnea
Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed because its symptoms are subtle and can be attributed to other issues. Plus, because you’re asleep, you may not be aware of your sleep behavior. However, there are some common signs of sleep apnea to look out for:
- Difficulty concentrating — poor cognitive function and difficulty concentrating on tasks
- Excessive daytime sleepiness — feeling overly tired during the day, no matter how much time you spend in bed
- Frequent nighttime urination — waking frequently during the night to use the restroom
- Irritability and mood swings — sleep apnea can affect your mood and lead to irritability
- Loud snoring — especially when accompanied by pauses in breathing
- Morning headaches — waking up with a headache or head pain
Comprehensive treatment options for sleep apnea
Our experienced ENT specialists are skilled in a vast array of effective treatment options. Because you are unique, each care plan is tailored to your personal needs.
Our comprehensive approach may include:
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy — This involves wearing a mask over your nose and/or mouth that delivers a continuous flow of air, keeping your airway open during sleep.
- Bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) therapy — Similar to CPAP, BiPAP adjusts the air pressure levels, making it easier to breathe in and out, especially for people with CSA.
- Oral appliances — Custom-fitted dental devices can reposition your jaw and tongue, helping to keep your airway open.
- Lifestyle modifications — Losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and changing sleep positions sometimes can correct mild cases of sleep apnea.
- Surgical interventions – In some cases, we may recommend a surgical procedure to remove excess tissue from the throat or correct structural abnormalities.
At West Jefferson, we’re dedicated to providing the expert care you deserve. Don’t lose another good night’s rest because of sleep apnea. To explore all your treatment options, call us directly at 504.934.8550 or schedule an appointment online.
