The National Sleep Foundation estimates 18 to 20 million adults in the United States have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. Since sleep apnea occurs while the patient is sleeping, many people are unaware they have this condition. It is often a bed partner that alerts them to their disordered breathing, loud snoring, or other symptoms commonly associated with OSA. If sleep apnea goes undiagnosed, health risks such as heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, heart disease, and more can arise.
Oral surgeons like Dr. Zarrinkelk and Dr. Siavash can evaluate and treat sleep apnea disorders. While mild to moderate forms of sleep apnea can be treated without surgical intervention, more severe cases may require the expertise of an oral surgeon to help sleep and breathe better at night.
For mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, lifestyle changes may be recommended, such as avoiding alcohol, side sleeping, losing weight, and quitting smoking. Devices and breathing machines may also be a recommended form of treatment, such as a mouth guard or CPAP machine.
Surgical treatment for severe sleep apnea can be safely performed at our offices in Ventura and Ojai, CA, or a hospital setting. Surgical treatment involves removing, shrinking, or stiffening the excess tissue in the mouth or throat. Sometimes corrective jaw surgery is also recommended to adjust the breathing passages.
Sleep apnea is diagnosed after a polysomnogram, or sleep study, has been conducted. However, you may have sleep apnea if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder and there are many options for treatment. If you are interested in learning more about sleep apnea and how Greater Ventura Oral & Facial Surgery can help, we encourage you to contact our office and schedule a consultation.
