Are you tired of feeling tired? If you’re one of the millions suffering from sleep apnea, you might be wondering if there’s a new solution on the horizon. At San Diego Sleep and TMJ Center, we’re excited to share some groundbreaking news that could change the way we approach sleep apnea treatment.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Before we discuss the latest breakthroughs, let’s quickly recap sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. If left untreated, it can lead to poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and even serious health complications.
Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
● Loud snoring
● Gasping for air during sleep
● Waking up with a dry mouth
● Morning headaches
● Difficulty staying asleep
● Excessive daytime sleepiness
● Irritability
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, seeking professional help is crucial.
What are the Treatments for Sleep Apnea?
Traditionally, the gold standard for sleep apnea treatment has been Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. While effective, many patients find CPAP machines uncomfortable or difficult to use consistently. This has led to ongoing research into alternative treatments, which brings us to the exciting breakthrough we want to share with you.
Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation Device: The New Breakthrough
The latest game-changer in sleep apnea treatment is the Inspire upper airway stimulation device. This innovative technology offers a new approach to managing sleep apnea that doesn’t require a mask or hose.
Here’s how it works:
- The device is implanted during an outpatient procedure.
- It monitors your breathing patterns while you sleep.
- When needed, it delivers mild stimulation to key airway muscles.
- This stimulation helps keep the airway open, allowing for normal breathing during sleep.
The Inspire device is controlled by a small handheld remote, allowing you to turn it on before bed and off when you wake up. It’s a remarkable step forward in sleep apnea treatment, offering a more comfortable and less intrusive option for many patients.
Pacing of the Hypoglossal Nerve in the Neck
The Inspire device works by pacing the hypoglossal nerve in the neck. This nerve controls tongue movement, and by stimulating it, the device helps prevent the tongue from blocking the airway during sleep. This targeted approach addresses one of the primary causes of obstructive sleep apnea, offering a more direct solution than traditional treatments.
Oral Appliances: Another Effective Option
While the Inspire device is making waves, it’s important to note that oral appliances remain an effective treatment for many sleep apnea patients. These custom-made devices work by repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. They’re particularly useful for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who can’t tolerate CPAP therapy.
Benefits of oral appliances include:
● Comfortable and easy to wear
● Portable for travel
● No noise or electricity is required
● Can be used in any sleep position
At San Diego Sleep and TMJ Center, we specialize in fitting patients with these custom oral appliances, ensuring the best possible fit and effectiveness.
What About Surgery?
While surgery has been an option for sleep apnea treatment, it’s typically considered only when other treatments have failed. The introduction of the Inspire device provides a less invasive alternative to traditional sleep apnea surgeries, offering hope for patients who haven’t found success with other treatments.
Schedule an Appointment
Ready to explore your options for treating sleep apnea? Call us today or visit our website to book your appointment. At San Diego Sleep and TMJ Center, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve the restful, rejuvenating sleep you deserve. Sweet dreams are just a phone call away!