Sleep Apnea Cures
Although there are no true sleep apnea cures, there are many ways to alleviate apnea and minimize its effects. Apnea cannot be detected in a simple checkup, and the person who is affected is probably not even aware of their condition. Usually it is a family member that sees (and hears) the effects first.
The Three Types of Apnea
Sleep apnea comes in three different varieties: Obstructive, Central, and mixed. The most common is obstructive apnea, and generally this is the easiest to relieve. Obstructive apnea occurs when there is a blockage in the airway, usually from the soft palate in the back of the throat. People suffering from obstructive apnea will stop breathing, and then start again with a jolt or snort. This happens frequently during the night.
The First of the Sleep Apnea Cures
The first thing to try in minimizing obstructive apnea is a lifestyle change. If an affected person is overweight, drinks or smokes, they may find that simply losing weight, avoiding alcohol, or quitting smoking may solve their dilemma.
Sometimes simply sleeping on ones side will minimize the apnea effect.
Surgery May Help
Sometimes a doctor will suggest surgery to correct jaw or mouth placement problems that are causing an obstruction. Likewise a dentist or orthodontist may construct a mouthpiece to hold the jaw in a certain position during sleep.
CPAP, A Common Breathing Apparatus for Sleep
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. With this device, the patient wears a mask over the nose and mouth, or just the mouth. Air is gently blown into the throat and keeps the airway open. The pressure is adjusted so as to be just enough to keep the blockage out, yet not dry out the throat.
Currently there are no drugs that could be considered sleep apnea cures. The goal of any of the treatments is to keep the airway unobstructed, and breathing steady and normal.
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