Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep disorders always need personalized treatment depending on the patient's health and the stage of the disease. Sleep apnea treatment considers the medical history of the patient and the minute examination of the patient's health. The severity of the disease also plays an important role in determining the treatment for sleep apnea. Some of the major treatment options available for sleep apnea are discussed below:
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
CPAP is one of the common treatments for severe sleep apnea, especially to treat obstructive sleep apnea. The treatment involves the use of a device that prevents airway blockage by pressurized air. These CPAP devices have an inbuilt humidifier that makes the patient comfortable. Despite CPAP reducing the chances of airway blockage some patients find it difficult to use.
Recent advancements in the CPAP device have made its use more comfortable and effective. Here are some common tips for the successful use of CPAP:
- Use CPAP for small periods during day at the start.
- Adjust the tubes and mask straps to make it more comfortable. This will reduce skin irritation.
- Different types of masks are available to make the patient breathe better with the help of nasal pillow and chin strap.
- Use nasal decongestant to avoid the nasal congestion.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery will help in increasing the size of the airway by removing some organs from the throat of the sleep apnea patient. These organs include the adenoids, tonsils and the soft tissues, which are spread into the nose and at the backside of the throat. In some cases, surgery includes the change in original structure of the jaw. Surgical treatment can be a good option for permanent relief from sleep apnea. However, this treatment may have some side-effects like infections and surgical complications.
Behavioral Therapy
Overweight people suffering from sleep apnea can be treated by behavioral therapy that includes ten percent weight loss. It is proved through studies that weight loss has decreased sleep apneic episodes. These patients are also provided with an especially designed pillow that makes them feel comfortable while sleeping on one side. The results of this treatment are so positive that doctors believe that behavioral therapy is effective for sleep apnea in all stages.
Sleep apnea patients usually need intensive care and monitoring after surgical treatment. If a person is going through any treatment, he or she must consult with the anesthetist about the health status. Communication before the treatment is absolutely necessary between the patient and the doctor.
