Posted: September 21, 2020
The three types of sleep apnea are:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). OSA is often a result of soft tissue collapse and is marked by a physical obstruction of the airways
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA). CSA may be a complication of an existing medical disorder. It is a result of miscommunication between the brain and the muscles of respiration
- Complex/Mixed Sleep Apnea (MSA). MSA is caused both by physical obstruction and miscommunication
Regardless of the type of sleep apnea present, the symptoms can be very similar. These include:
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Periods of breath cessation while sleeping
- Frequent morning headaches
- Dry mouth/sore throat
Left untreated and the sleep disruptions caused by this disorder may encourage the development of serious complications such as:
- Irritability and anxiety
- General malaise
- Memory loss
- Cognitive disruptions
- Excessive daytime fatigue
There is also evidence linking a lack of sleep to depressive symptoms, including ideation and suicide. This makes treating sleep apnea as soon as symptoms develop all the more important.
How Is OSA Treated?
CSA and MSA often require assistance with breathing. This may include CPAP, surgical implants, and similar medical devices that can be used to ensure continual airflow during sleep. While useful in the treatment of sleep apnea, however, these methods are often unnecessary for the treatment of OSA. They may even further disrupt sleep with their wires, noises, and tubes.
Alternatives to CPAP
CPAP relies on nasal tubing or a facemask to deliver oxygen throughout the night. The sleep apnea devices offered at our office are, by comparison, customized oral appliances. Personalized to fit comfortably into your mouth, these devices are designed to hold soft tissue in place and gently angle the jaw to allow unobstructed airflow throughout the night. Safe, comfortable, and effective, these minimally invasive devices can eliminate snoring, protect you against the consequences of sleep apnea, and help ensure you – and everyone else in your house – gets a full and restful night’s sleep.
Are you ready to learn if a nonsurgical CPAP alternative is the best solution for your sleep apnea? Please call 403-208-9965 to schedule a consultation at Evolution Dental. Located in Calgary, we serve all surrounding areas of Alberta.
