There are two primary types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea. Alltown Sleep specializes in treating OSA.
Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that gravely affects people of all ages. Outcomes for patients are major and include cardiovascular, metabolic and neurological disorders and dramatically increase the risk of sudden death.
OSA is characterized by repeated periods of breathing stoppage during the sleep accompanied by numerous periodic of awakening. Most of the time snoring is a telling sign, but not all the people who snore have sleep apnea. Diurnal symptoms includes chronic fatigue, sleepiness, lack of concentration and focus.
A CPAP machine, or continuous positive airway pressure machine, is a device worn over the face while sleeping that introduces air pressure into the airway and helps prevent obstructions.
While a CPAP machine is effective at treating the symptoms of sleep apnea, many patients find it uncomfortable to use inconvenient to maintain.
Mandibular advancement devices (MAD) are small appliances that gently protrude the jaw forward while sleeping to prevent upper airway collapse. Many patients find them more comfortable to use compared to CPAP machines, which helps to increase MAD effectiveness. In fact, clinical guidelines recommend MAD over CPAP machines for mild and moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
A MAD is custom fit to your mouth by an oral specialist, such as a dentist.
If left untreated, sleep apnea can have serious adverse affects on your overall health.