Sleep Apnea Treatment

Do you Snore?

Snoring is a result of partial blocking of the upper airway. During sleep, muscles relax, including those that control the tongue and throat. The soft tissue (or flesh) at the back of the throat can sag, narrowing the airway. Incoming air then makes the tissue at the rear roof of the mouth (the soft palate), the flap of skin hanging from the palate (uvula) and the throat vibrate – a sound known as snoring.

Loud snoring may be a sign of a more serious problem – Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):

For patients suffering with OSA, the airway becomes completely blocked and breathing stops. The brain then detects the lack of oxygen and prompts the body to momentarily “wake up” to draw breath. This disruption to sleep can contribute to fatigue and leave the sufferer feeling tired, drowsy and inappropriately sleepy.
The prolonged effects of lack of sleep can lead to slowed responses, memory problems, difficulty in paying attention or concentrating and may also cause performance problems at work. Lack of sleep can cause drowsiness during driving and increase the risk of automobile accidents.

Treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

 

Some patients benefit from wearing an oral appliance while they sleep. Dr. Wise is a SomnoMed MAS™ provider – this Mandibular Advancement Splint is used to treat snoring and mild to moderate OSA by moving the lower jaw forward slightly. The forward movement tightens the soft tissue and muscles of the upper airway, which prevents obstruction of the airway while you sleep. The tightening created by the device also prevents the tissues of the upper airway from vibrating as air passes over them – the most common cause of loud snoring.

SomnoMed MAS™ is often a suitable alternative for patients that are unable to tolerate CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) systems for treatment of sleep apnea. Visit the SomnoMed web site.

  • SomnoMed MAS™ Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment
  • Lower risk of heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke
  • Less daytime sleepiness
  • Improved marital relations
  • More energy
  • Improved memory
  • Improved sense of well-being
  • Less headaches

Are you and your spouse ready for a good nights’ sleep?

Dr. Wise works closely with physicians and sleep centers in treating patients with obstructive sleep apnea. If you’re ready to put away the masks, tubing and bulky CPAP equipment associated with treatment, Contact Us today for a complimentary consultation.