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What is Sleep Apnea?
The term “apnea” means “without breath,” while “sleep apnea” refers to a medical disorder in which a person’s breathing involuntarily stops and starts during sleep. This can occur for various reasons, most commonly due to a blockage of the upper airway or when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe, known as central sleep apnea. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to manage and improve this chronic health disorder, helping individuals achieve better sleep quality and overall well-being.
What Are the Types of Sleep Apnea?
The followings are the three main types of sleep apnea:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea: In obstructive sleep apnea, the upper airway repetitively gets blocked partly or completely, hindering the airflow. While most people experience occasional periods without breath during sleep, it is dangerous if more than 15 episodes occur per hour. In such cases, it requires immediate medical attention to avoid health issues.
Central Sleep Apnea: During this, breathing starts and stops randomly because the brain temporarily stops signals to control breathing. People facing central sleep apnea feel severe fatigue, irritability and daytime drowsiness.
Complex Sleep Apnea: This disorder occurs when an individual suffers from both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.
What are the Possible Causes of Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea causes are numerous, with some common ones including:
Obesity: Excess weight, particularly around the neck, can lead to bulky tissues that narrow the airway, increasing the risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Genetics and pregnancy: Some individuals have enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or a naturally narrow airway which can contribute to OSA. Some of these traits may be genetic or occur during development.
Nasal congestion and allergies: Flu, cold, and other allergies can cause the nasal tract to get congested. If the nasal tract is blocked, it obstructs the airflow and prevents proper breathing, thus increasing apnea risks.
Sinus infection: Swelling from a sinus infection can also constrict airflow, worsening symptoms related to apnea and snoring.
Deviated septum: A deviated septum also causes breathing problems, especially during sleep, potentially leading to snoring and apnea.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Unlike OSA, CSA arises when the brain temporarily fails to send breathing signals to the muscles, leading to pauses in breathing.
What are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Having obstructive sleep apnea can affect a person’s entire sleep experience and requires snoring treatment. Some of the common sleep apnea symptoms include:
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Dry mouth
- Short episodes where an individual stops breathing
- Waking up with a headache
- Tiredness and fatigue after sleeping all night
- Insomnia
- Hypersomnia
- Irritability
- Moodiness
- Short attention span
- Sleepiness
- Loud and persistent snoring
Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea
If an individual is suspected of having sleep apnea, they may be referred to an ENT specialist for a thorough examination. Additionally, some doctors may refer patients to pulmonologists or neurologists, depending on their specific symptoms. A sleep study test, known as polysomnography, is often conducted to confirm the diagnosis.
Sleep Apnea Treatments in Dubai
There are several treatments available to treat sleep apnea, depending on the underlying anatomical causes. The doctor can carry out a procedure after finding the root cause of sleep apnea and thus enable the patient to feel long-term relief. In some cases, sleep apnea can be cured permanently, while in others it can be managed effectively for a longer period. Here are some of the best sleep apnea treatments that we offer at Euromed Clinic:
1. Tonsillectomy
This treatment involves removing enlarged tonsils. These tonsils can obstruct airways and thus by treating them, the patient can alleviate symptoms.
2. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Machine
CPAP therapy is not a cure but it can keep airways open, ensuring a peaceful sleep at night for the patient.
3. Hyoid Suspension Surgery
By repositioning the hyoid bone, this surgery increases airway space, potentially offering a more permanent resolution for those with specific airway obstructions.
4. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) Surgery
UPPP removes or repositions tissue in the throat, opening the airway to improve breathing during sleep, though results can vary based on individual anatomy.
Each treatment’s effectiveness depends on the specific cause and severity of the sleep apnea. Consulting a specialist can determine the best approach for lasting relief.
5. Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA)
This surgical procedure repositions the upper and lower jaws forward, creating more space in the airway and reducing obstructions. It is often effective in severe sleep apnea cases.
6. Pillar Procedure
Small implants are inserted into the soft palate to stiffen it, reducing airway collapse. This minimally invasive option can help with mild to moderate sleep apnea.
7. Nasal Surgery (e.g., Septoplasty)
Correcting nasal obstructions, like a deviated septum, can improve airflow and potentially resolve sleep apnea, especially in those with nasal airway issues.
8. Weight Loss Surgery
In cases where obesity contributes to sleep apnea, bariatric surgery can help by reducing weight-related airway obstructions, sometimes resolving the condition permanently.
9. Inspire Therapy
This device, surgically implanted, stimulates airway muscles to stay open during sleep. Inspire therapy is particularly effective for individuals who can’t tolerate CPAP.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Cost in Dubai
The cost of sleep apnea treatment in Dubai varies as it depends on the underlying issue being treated. Furthermore, the expertise of the doctor and geographical location of the clinic also play a pivotal role in determining the final cost of the treatment.
What Is the Most Successful Treatment for Sleep Apnea?
A CPAP machine is one of the most common and reliable methods for managing severe sleep apnea. Its continuous, steady airflow keeps the airway open, allowing for restful sleep. Keep in mind that CPAP can make your sleep apnea less intense but it is not a complete cure.
Which Type of Doctor Is Best for Sleep Apnea?
Pulmonologists and ENT specialists are considered the right doctors for treating sleep apnea, as the former specialize in lung health and can understand lung conditions and their impact on individuals. The latter, however, understands the anatomy of the nose and throat and can therefore treat sleep apnea effectively if it stems from structural issues in these areas.
Can You Live a Long Life with Sleep Apnea?
If sleep apnea is left untreated and progresses from moderate to severe, the frequent stress and nighttime breathing disruptions can significantly impact your overall health, potentially shortening lifespan.
Can Surgery Fix Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea surgery can alleviate or even eliminate sleep apnea if the underlying cause can be corrected surgically. In such cases, the need for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy may no longer be necessary.
Request an Appointment
Consider snoring treatment if you suffer from sleep apnea and your sleep schedule is disturbed. If you want to ask any questions from our experts at Euromed Clinic Center, please call us at +971 4 394 5422 or schedule an appointment via WhatsApp using the same number.
