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Suggest Alternative Treatment To Correct Sleep Apnea
Question: Other than a CPAP machine, are there any other treatment options for correcting sleep apnea?
Brief Answer:
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for the question.
Obstructive sleep apnea is an illness that, left untreated, can have several complications, including hypoxia, lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, classic hypertension, sleep disorders, and depression. A CPAP machine is the most effective way to treat this condition. To answer your question specifically, there are surgical options, which an ENT can perform, but these are not always 100% successful. There are no medications that can help as this is a mechanical problem. If you are interested in pursuing surgery, look up a local ENT and consult with them to explore the logistics.
I hope this was helpful. My private link is something I encourage you to use to reach me: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for the question.
Obstructive sleep apnea is an illness that, left untreated, can have several complications, including hypoxia, lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, classic hypertension, sleep disorders, and depression. A CPAP machine is the most effective way to treat this condition. To answer your question specifically, there are surgical options, which an ENT can perform, but these are not always 100% successful. There are no medications that can help as this is a mechanical problem. If you are interested in pursuing surgery, look up a local ENT and consult with them to explore the logistics.
I hope this was helpful. My private link is something I encourage you to use to reach me: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Thank you Dr. Sheppe. Do you know statistically how successful CPAP machines are? Reason I asked my original question is because my stepfather also has sleep apnea and himself uses a CPAP machine - but he knocks the breathing apparatus off when moving around at night so I don't think the CPAP is very effective for him.
Brief Answer:
Follow-up
Detailed Answer:
You're most welcome!
CPAP machines are close to 100% effective at treating sleep apnea. Unfortunately, like you mention, somewhere around 30-50% of patients stop treatment because the device is uncomfortable. Treatment of this condition is very important, so finding a mask that fits him securely and doesn't get disconnected with movement during the night is key.
One thing I forgot to mention: mandibular advancement devices are another form of treatment that are much less effective, but may be something to consider if you or your stepfather have mild to moderate disease and absolutely cannot tolerate the CPAP machine.
tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Follow-up
Detailed Answer:
You're most welcome!
CPAP machines are close to 100% effective at treating sleep apnea. Unfortunately, like you mention, somewhere around 30-50% of patients stop treatment because the device is uncomfortable. Treatment of this condition is very important, so finding a mask that fits him securely and doesn't get disconnected with movement during the night is key.
One thing I forgot to mention: mandibular advancement devices are another form of treatment that are much less effective, but may be something to consider if you or your stepfather have mild to moderate disease and absolutely cannot tolerate the CPAP machine.
tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Neel Kudchadkar
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