Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder which causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses, which can last from seconds to minutes, occur due to an obstruction in the upper airway. As a result, the body receives less oxygen, leading to poor sleep quality and sleep deprivation.
If left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to cardiovascular abnormalities, such as hypertension and heart disease. Fortunately, a range of treatment options is available to manage symptoms and improve overall health.
Sleep apnea is a common condition in Singapore. Treatments include:
CPAP therapy is a commonly used treatment for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask connected to a machine that delivers a continuous stream of air. This keeps the airway open while sleeping, preventing interruptions in breathing.
Oral appliances, such as Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) and Tongue-Stabilising Devices (TSDs), are often recommended for patients who cannot tolerate or benefit from CPAP therapy. These custom-made devices are worn at night to reposition the jaw and tongue, keeping the airway open and improving breathing during sleep.
This therapy involves using specialised devices or pillows to discourage back sleeping, a position that can worsen sleep apnea symptoms. Side sleeping, a simple yet effective technique, helps keep the airway open and improves breathing during sleep.
Myofunctional therapy is a treatment that focuses on improving oral motor function. Through targeted exercises, it strengthens the tongue, jaw, and throat muscles, helping to keep the airway open during sleep. This reduction in airway obstruction can greatly reduce the frequency and severity of sleep apnea episodes.
Lifestyle modifications can be effective in managing mild cases of sleep apnea. Key strategies include weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, regular exercise, and quitting smoking. These changes can reduce airway pressure, improve respiratory health, and alleviate symptoms.
Surgery for sleep apnea may be recommended in severe cases or if the patient does not respond well to non-invasive treatment options. Several surgical options may be considered, such as:
Sinus surgery can address nasal obstructions caused by chronic sinus infections, polyps, and a deviated septum. By improving airflow through the nasal passages, this procedure may alleviate sleep apnea symptoms, particularly in cases where sinus issues contribute to airway obstruction during sleep.
Adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids, lymphatic tissues located at the back of the nasal cavity. Enlarged adenoids can obstruct airflow in the upper respiratory tract, making it difficult to breathe. Removing them can improve breathing and alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea.
Enlarged tonsils can obstruct the airway, leading to sleep apnea. Tonsillectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils, can help maintain an open airway and improve breathing.
Hypoglossal nerve stimulation is an innovative treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. This procedure involves implanting a small device under the skin in the chest to stimulate the hypoglossal nerve, which controls tongue movement. By preventing the tongue from collapsing and blocking the airway during sleep, this therapy reduces the frequency and severity of sleep apnea episodes for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.
Treating sleep apnea is essential for overall health and well-being. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health consequences, including cognitive impairment and cardiovascular problems. If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, please do not hesitate to seek medical attention. At Barrie Tan ENT Head & Neck Surgery, we offer comprehensive services to manage sleep apnea and improve your quality of life. To schedule an appointment, please call us at 6738 1616.
