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Austin Doctors Sleep Medicine Surgical Treatmwnt For Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, and it can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available, including sleep medicine and surgical treatments. In this article, we will focus on the options available in Austin, Texas for treating sleep apnea.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep Apnea is a condition where a person stops breathing during sleep. This can happen multiple times per hour, and it can lead to a variety of health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. There are several types of sleep apnea, but the most common is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which occurs when the airway becomes blocked by the tongue, soft palate, or other tissues in the throat.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep Medicine Treatments for Sleep Apnea

One of the most common treatments for sleep apnea is the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. This machine delivers a steady stream of air through a mask that is worn over the nose and/or mouth. The air pressure keeps the airway open and prevents the person from stopping breathing during sleep. While CPAP is effective, it can be uncomfortable to wear and difficult to use consistently.

Another option is the use of an oral appliance, which is a custom-made device that fits over the teeth and positions the jaw forward to keep the airway open. Oral appliances can be more comfortable than a CPAP machine, but they are not as effective for severe cases of sleep apnea.

Cpap Machine

Surgical Treatments for Sleep Apnea

For people who cannot tolerate CPAP or oral appliances, or who have severe sleep apnea, surgical treatments may be necessary. There are several surgical options available, including:

  • Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) - This surgery removes excess tissue from the throat, including the uvula, soft palate, and tonsils.
  • Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) - This surgery repositions the jaw forward to keep the airway open.
  • Genioglossus Advancement (GA) - This surgery moves the tongue muscle forward to prevent it from blocking the airway.
  • Hyoid Suspension - This surgery lifts the hyoid bone in the neck to create more space in the airway.

Surgical treatments can be effective, but they are also invasive and carry some risks. It is important to discuss the pros and cons of each surgical option with a qualified sleep medicine specialist.

Sleep Apnea Surgery

Austin Doctors Specializing in Sleep Medicine and Sleep Apnea Treatment

If you live in the Austin area and are suffering from sleep apnea, there are several doctors and clinics that specialize in sleep medicine and sleep apnea treatment:

  • Austin Sleep Medicine - This clinic offers diagnostic testing and treatment options for a variety of sleep disorders, including sleep apnea.
  • Capital Otolaryngology - This clinic offers surgical treatments for sleep apnea, including UPPP and GA.
  • Seton Healthcare Family - Seton has sleep centers throughout Austin that offer diagnostic testing and treatment for sleep disorders, including sleep apnea.

Conclusion

Sleep apnea is a serious condition, but there are many treatment options available. Whether you choose a sleep medicine or surgical treatment, it is important to work with a qualified sleep specialist to find the best option for your individual needs. If you live in the Austin area, there are several doctors and clinics that specialize in sleep medicine and sleep apnea treatment that can help you get the restful sleep you need.

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