Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to disrupted rest and potential health issues. Your airway becomes partially or entirely obstructed as you sleep, leading to breathing problems. You may wake up just to continue breathing because of a survival response brought on by a consequent oxygen shortage. This can prevent complications but also disrupts your sleep pattern. Many people suffer from this condition, not knowing that they may improve their breathing and quality of sleep with the use of specialised therapies.
The following article will explain the function of ENT surgeries and how ENT surgeons in Mumbai may help if you’re looking for effective sleep apnea treatment in Mira Road.
Types of Sleep Apnea
This potentially dangerous sleep condition causes breathing to stop and start again. Sleep apnea may cause loud snoring and fatigue even after a whole night’s sleep.
These are the primary types of sleep apnea:
● Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This is the most common form. Here, the throat muscles relax excessively and block the airway.
● Central Sleep Apnea: The brain’s inability to properly communicate with the breathing muscles is the cause of central sleep apnea.
● Treatment-Emergent Central Sleep Apnea: Treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, also known as complex sleep apnea, occurs when a person has obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – they have a sleep study that diagnoses this condition and then converts it to CSA while receiving treatment for OSA.
Serious issues, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and everyday weariness, can result from sleep apnea if treatment is not received. To prevent problems, it is essential to get assistance from a trained sleep apnea doctor.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
It might be challenging to differentiate between different types of sleep apneas because of their similar symptoms. The following are the most typical indicators to watch for:
● Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (Hypersomnia): One of the defining signs is unusual daytime weariness, even after a full night’s sleep. This may result in forgetfulness, a loss of focus, or an inability to maintain awareness.
● Loud Snoring: Prolonged and loud snoring is a potential warning indicator; however, not all snorers have sleep apnea.
● Episodes of Stopped Breathing: Partners or roommates often report noticing periods where the individual stops breathing momentarily during sleep.
● Waking Up With a Dry Mouth or Throat: Dryness in the mouth or throat is a common issue caused by sleep breathing problems and can lead to discomfort or awakenings during the night.
● Morning Headaches: Obstructive sleep apnea may cause headaches that get better later in the day.
● Mood Changes and Irritability: Depression and irritability or mood swings are frequently caused by inadequate sleep.
● Reduced Libido: Sleep apnea affects sexual functioning in several ways. In this illness, sex drive is lost in both men and women.
For proper diagnosis and course of treatment, consult a skilled sleep apnea doctor if you experience any of the symptoms.
ENT Surgeries for Sleep Apnea
The goal of ENT procedures is to clear airway blockages and increase airflow. The following are some common surgeries carried out by a Mumbai ENT surgeon:
Septoplasty
The worsening of sleep apnea may be caused by airflow obstruction caused by a deviated nasal septum. Better nasal airflow should be observed in the patient after the septum is corrected. After this surgical procedure, the majority of patients report better sleep.
Turbinate Reduction
The structures of the nose that filter and hydrate the air we breathe are called turbinates. The airway may get blocked by large turbinates. Turbinate reduction is the process of reducing or removing a portion of the turbinate to restore appropriate airflow.
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
This approach involves removing extra tissue from the throat, including the uvula, to open up the airway. Patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea are generally advised to undergo this procedure.
Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy
Sleep apnea can often be caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids, particularly in children. By removing these tissues, breathing problems can be corrected, and sleep quality can be improved.
Genioglossus Advancement (Tongue Advancement Surgery)
The tongue may occasionally slip back while you sleep, obstructing your airway. Realigning the tongue muscle attachment keeps the tongue from collapsing into the airway.
Inspire Therapy (Implantable Nerve Stimulation)
With the help of an implanted device, this novel therapy keeps the airway open at night by stimulating the neurons that regulate the tongue and airway muscles.
Patients seeking sleep apnea treatment in Mira Road can discuss these options with a qualified ENT specialist to determine the best approach.
How ENT Surgeries Improve Sleep Quality
ENT procedures provide long-lasting relief and significant improvements in the quality of your sleep by directly addressing the anatomical problems in your airway that cause sleep apnea. The impact of these processes is as follows:
● Reduced Snoring: By removing obstructions in the nose or throat, many ENT procedures completely eradicate or drastically lessen snoring. Both the patient and their sleeping companion gain from this.
● Better Breathing During Sleep: Surgery can guarantee continuous breathing by clearing blockages in the throat or nose, which lowers the frequency of apnea episodes.
● Improved Oxygen Levels: Clearer airways allow for better oxygen flow, which is vital for your overall health and energy levels.
● Enhanced Daytime Focus: Patients who get more restful sleep usually see an improvement in their mood, productivity, and ability to concentrate during the day.
● Long-Term Benefits: In contrast to short-term solutions, ENT procedures frequently address the underlying causes of sleep apnea in a permanent manner.
These treatments address the underlying reasons for your sleep issues, transforming your sleep patterns and daily life, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and prepared to face life.
Conclusion
Although sleep apnea can negatively impact your lifestyle and health, it doesn’t have to take over your life. ENT procedures by qualified specialists, such as an ENT surgeon in Mira Road, provide practical ways to improve breathing and sleep quality.
Wockhardt Hospitals is your reliable health partner if you’re looking for professional care. The hospital is dedicated to helping you get better sleep and live a healthy life by providing excellent sleep apnea treatment and skilled professionals in Mira Road. Take the first step today by consulting a sleep apnea doctor or a nose specialist near Mumbai.
FAQs
Q1. Are there any non-surgical treatments for sleep apnea?
Yes, non-surgical treatments for sleep apnea are available and effective. Several studies suggest that myofunctional therapy can reduce symptoms by 30–40%, while Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is widely used to manage the condition. Consult a sleep apnea specialist to explore these options further.
Q2. What triggers sleep apnea?
Numerous factors, including obesity, larger tonsils, nasal congestion, smoking, alcohol usage, and genetics, might contribute to sleep apnea. A deviated nasal septum is one example of a structural abnormality in the airway that can cause breathing disruptions as you sleep.
Q3. Is sleep apnea a serious medical condition?
Indeed, sleep apnea is a serious condition. Complications include excessive blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and daytime exhaustion. A sleep apnea specialist’s early diagnosis and treatment is vital against these long-term health hazards.
