Sleep Apnea in Orange County

There’s nothing better than a good night’s sleep but, for many, it’s an elusive dream. Unfortunately, there are many people with sleep apnea in Orange County, but that doesn’t mean it has to stay that way. With our help, a good night’s sleep can be a dream come true.

In addition to the restorative sleep we all require, many rely on sleep as a way of keeping our sanity. After a difficult day, it’s nice to tumble into bed and escape from it all. Others like to sleep late on weekends and make that the start of a relaxing day. If you suffer from sleep apnea, sleep is not an escape or rejuvenating experience; it is torment.

People with sleep apnea can stop breathing many times a minute or for several minutes at a time. As you might imagine, this destroys any chance for a good night’s sleep. Central sleep apnea (CSA) involves an inability of the respiratory system to function properly. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when there is a physical obstruction that blocks breathing. This is, by far, the most common form. Complex or mixed sleep apnea, a combination of both, is more complicated and includes both obstructions and problems with the efficiency of the respiratory system.

If you often feel sleepy during the day or have trouble maintaining focus, you might have a problem. There are tests that can determine if you suffer from the condition. Once you have been diagnosed, there are several treatment options. You can be fitted with a mouthpiece (oral appliance therapy (OAT)) that will help keep your throat open, so you can breathe better while sleeping. The Pillar Procedure places several Dacron strips in the soft palate which helps keep it rigid during sleep. This may be sufficient.

If these approaches are not effective, or your condition is more severe, you might be fitted with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or automatic positive airway pressure (APAP) device. These machines work by regulating the airflow by providing pressure and moisture through a mask. The goal is to keep the airway open.

If you feel you might have a problem with sleep, call our office to set up a consultation. Our staff is ready to treat those with sleep apnea in Orange County. Get ready to wake up to a new day.

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