Sleep apnea is a common medical condition where a person stops breathing for dozens (or even hundreds) of times every night due to airway blockage. Each time this happens CO2 builds up, your blood pressure rises, and your body startles you awake to restart proper breathing.
This is a very dangerous condition with negative consequences for both your quality of life and your health. Serious cases of sleep apnea may reduce your life expectancy by up to 10 years.
Thankfully, with proper sleep apnea treatment, you can reduce your risk and limit (or completely stop) your snoring.
Most common risk factors
- Men 40+ years old have a higher risk than women
- Obesity: approximately two-thirds of reported cases are overweight or obese
- Smokers and excessive alcohol consumption
- Those with a family history of sleep apnea
- Small lower jaw and certain other facial configurations
Benefits of sleep apnea treatment
- Reduce the risk of heart disease and lower blood pressure
- Decreased risk of getting type-2 diabetes
- Improved day time alertness and concentration
- Reduce your risk of depression and improve your overall quality of life
- Your bed partner will benefit from a quieter sleep environment
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Dr. Fleming offers personalized sleep apnea treatments to help you sleep, breathe, and feel better. Based on the severity of your sleep apnea symptoms, sleep apnea test results, and the recommendations of your physician, your sleep apnea treatment may include:
CPAP Machine
The CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is the gold standard for relieving dangerous and severe sleep apnea symptoms. A CPAP machine is worn over your face at night. The machine gently adjusts your lower jaw, opening your airway and preventing obstruction.
Oral Appliance
Best for those with mild to moderate symptoms or for those who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine, our oral sleep apnea appliance. Worn like a retainer or mouth guard, this appliance keeps your airway open all night long. Sleep apnea appliances are small, comfortable, and custom-made to fit your mouth.