Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It can lead to severe health complications, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and daytime fatigue. The ENT department at Heritage Hospital specializes in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea to improve sleep quality and overall health.

Types of Sleep Apnea:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common type, caused by a blockage in the airway due to relaxed throat muscles.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A combination of both OSA and CSA.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:

Loud snoring
Pauses in breathing during sleep
Waking up gasping or choking
Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Morning headaches

Diagnosis & Evaluation:

At Heritage Hospital, sleep apnea is diagnosed through:

Sleep Study (Polysomnography): A detailed overnight test that monitors breathing, oxygen levels, and sleep patterns.
Home Sleep Testing (HST): A simplified test to monitor airflow, breathing effort, and oxygen levels.
ENT Examination: To check for structural blockages like enlarged tonsils, nasal congestion, or deviated septum.

Treatment Options:

Lifestyle Modifications:
- Weight management, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol before bedtime.
- Sleeping on the side instead of the back to improve airflow.
Medical Therapies:
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A device that keeps airways open by delivering a steady stream of air.
- Oral Appliances: Custom-made dental devices that reposition the jaw to prevent airway collapse.
Surgical Treatments (For Severe Cases):
- Tonsillectomy & Adenoidectomy: Removes enlarged tonsils or adenoids obstructing airflow.
- Nasal Surgery: Corrects deviated septum or nasal blockages.
- Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): Removes excess tissue in the throat to widen the airway.

Why Choose Heritage Hospital for Sleep Apnea Treatment?

At Heritage Hospital, our experienced ENT specialists use advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to ensure better sleep and improved health. If you or a loved one experience sleep apnea symptoms, consult our experts for comprehensive care.