What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment And How Can You Fix It Without Surgical Options?

By Bruno Vigno

Obstructive sleep apnea treatment doesn't have to be difficult. The condition strikes only about 2% of women. Men are twice as likely to experience it and register at about 4%. As a result of the condition, many patients experience some serious signs of long term sleep deprivation. This can include irritability, fatigue, headaches, sudden dozing, and chronic body pain.

Partners of the patients also tend to suffer as well considering that the gasping and coughing that often wakes the victim also wakes the partner. The primary cause of obstructive sleep apnea is an airway that collapses in on itself, choking the sleeping victim.

As the patient sleeps, the oxygen levels within the body drop significantly and eventually triggers the brain to wake up, usually in an attempt to get sufficient air immediately. This can result in gasping, waking the partner, and the frightening feeling that one is suffocating. It's important to treat this kind of sleep disorder in order to restore the patient back to full health, including ample rest.

Often the easiest way to solve the problem is to sleep on your side. Most of the back and stomach sleepers that experience this type of sleep disorder find that side sleeping is an easy, cheap cure.

It's not uncommon for those who sleep on their backs to roll over during their sleep and are unaware of the position they are in. A simple pillow stuffed behind the back can help keep the sleeper on his or her side.

In very severe cases a nasal spray medication can help prevent the airway form becoming obstructed. Others choose dental devices that are specially made to help each individual with the problem. Many patients find that they have great success with CPAP, which is continuous positive airway pressure. Going over your treatment options with a sleep specialist or your physician will help determine the best course of action for your symptoms.

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