The treatments are the same for all types of sleep apnea, regardless of their origin (central or obstructive) that have a similar prognosis. The main treatments are:
Hygienic-dietetic measures: The main measure recommended is to lose weight. When the patient is able to reduce a few kilos can reverse the problem without further treatment.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in the acronym): The most common treatment. This is a mask that fits the nose and attached to a turbine that generates an airstream. This increases the air pressure in the airways and prevents the occurrence of obstructive pressure. Although most patients could benefit from them greatly, about 15% to 20% of patients do not tolerate this treatment.
Autopcap: A device similar to the above but with a sensor that measures the air pressure at all times, adapting to the needs of different apneas that may occur. These systems are very expensive, so they are not widespread.
Surgery: Different surgical options can be an alternative for patients not responding to CPAP and can not get thin. Among them, the uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (also known by the abbreviations UPPP and UP3) , a removal of the soft palate, uvula and tonsils that can be performed by laser, radiofrequency or conventional surgery.
Snoring Mouthpiece. The purpose of these devices is to advance the mandible and opening the passage from the back (the pharynx) to allow airflow. However, it still has not worked much.
Tracheotomy: Only in extreme situations is performed to facilitate breathing.
Tips for people who have snoring or sleep apnea
There are also children with snoring. The majority are those with the syndrome called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). The disease affects 1% to 3% of children. In many cases caused by too large tonsils, an anomaly that is now corrected by laser surgery and without having to remove them. However, we must pay attention to this syndrome because it can trigger health problems with a direct impact on physical and mental development of children. It appears that your IQ or your level of attention may be altered.
Other effects of sleep apnea in the child’s snoring is disruptions in the shape of the face, nocturnal enuresis (urinary incontinence during the night), daytime fatigue.
In adults, the deficit irrigation of the brain can be fatal in patients with hypertension and that in the long term may increase the risk of ischemic stroke. Similarly, sleep apnea can promote heart attacks. The risk is normalized by to receive proper sleep apnea treatment.
Comments on this entry are closed.