Sleep Apnea

Millions of individuals suffer from sleep apnea. This condition typically causes daytime lethargy, restless sleep and snoring. However, some patients can experience sleep apnea symptoms that impact overall health and wellness; sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, morning headaches, and even weight gain. In more severe cases when the airway is extremely obstructed, sleep apnea could be life-threatening.

The TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of St. Louis designs sleep apnea treatments that address the underlying cause of the disorder. A sleep doctor needs to perform a sleep test and diagnosed to confirm sleep apnea.

If sleep apnea is diagnosed, there are different treatment options, depending on the severity. CPap is a common treatment and often necessary for severe cases. A sleep appliance designed for sleep apnea is another option. CPap and a sleep appliance work differently and in many cases combination therapy (using both CPap and a sleep appliance together) has the best outcome.

There are other therapies that can aid in the treatment of sleep apnea, such as Nighlase, where a laser in the healing/toning mode helps improve the airway. Seeing an ENT for surgical intervention may also help treat sleep apnea.