When non-surgical treatments are not effective or practical for controlling sleep apnea symptoms, sleep apnea surgery may be the next best option. Our practice offers sleep apnea surgery at our office in Los Angeles, CA. Sleep apnea treatments may alter the soft palate, the shape of the jaw, or both, depending on the needs of the patient. When you come to our office, our surgeons will perform a full consultation to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition.
Sleep Apnea and Symptoms
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes breaks in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last for seconds or even minutes in severe cases. Most symptoms of sleep apnea occur at night, and usually, a partner or roommate notices signs of sleep apnea before the sufferer. Although most symptoms occur at night, sleep apnea can seriously affect your everyday life. You may have sleep apnea if you experience some of all the following symptoms:
- Snoring
- Pauses in breathing during sleep (often accompanied by a gasping sound when breathing resumes)
- Daytime sleepiness (even after a full night of sleep)
- Mental fog or difficulty concentrating during the day
- Insomnia or difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Changes in mood (depression, irritability, etc.)
- Frequent dry mouth or throat after waking up
- Headaches
Anyone can have sleep apnea, but it is most common in older male patients. People who think that they have sleep apnea should get diagnosed by a doctor or sleep specialist. Sleep apnea can seriously affect your quality of life: in addition to causing fatigue and other issues, the lack of adequate oxygen has been associated with higher blood pressure and heart disease. Seeking treatment as soon as possible is the best way to prevent potential problems.
