What are Non-surgical Medical Treatment options?
1. Weight reduction
This is perhaps the most important treatment strategy, one that cannot be over-emphasised. Studies have shown that weight reduction alone is effective in reducing the severity of OSA. The problem however is in weight maintenance. Several treatment options are available to help you lose weight (eg. medications, exercise programme). But remember, that without will-power, nothing is going to work effectively.
2. Body positioning
It is well known that obstructive episodes tend to be most severe when one lies on his back. This occurs because the tongue and soft palate tissue tend to fall backwards in this position. Patients with OSA are advised to avoid lying on their backs with heads facing up during sleep. This can be done with the help of a DYI 'Snoreball'. This is done by sewing a pocket at the back of a T-shirt (between your shoulder blades). Putting a golf ball into the pocket before you go to bed will help 'train' you not to lie on your back.
3. Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) device
This treatment utilises a mask placed over your nose to force air in at a continuous rate which act as a stent. This prevents your airway structures from collapsing. [ http://www.sleepnet.com ] 4. Oral appliances (teeth guard)
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This is a device that is worn only during sleep. The aim of this treatment is to push your lower jaw forwards with the aid of an oral appliance.Some jaw joint discomfort is expected but this usually improves with use. [ http://www.dentalcare.com.sg ] |
5. Avoidance of alcohol and sedating medications
Alcohol and sedatives (sleeping pills) tend to make your throat muscles more relax and aggravate your throat narrowing.
6. You may be a candidate for surgery if:
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You have sleep apnea and conservative medical treatment is not effective in helping you.
You are healthy enough and have a desire to undergo a surgical procedure.
You have an underlying anatomic abnormality (eg. small jaw size, oversized tongue, enlarged nasal
tissue) that is contributing to the sleep apnea. |
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