Snoring can be disruptive for your partner, but Sleep Apnea can be far more serious. This sleep disorder occurs when your breathing is interrupted during sleep, leading to insufficient oxygen flow to the brain and other vital organs. If left untreated, Sleep Apnea can increase your risk of several serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and even cancer.
How I Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
I treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) using a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD). This device gently shifts the lower jaw forward, helping to maintain an open airway by reducing its collapsibility and increasing its space.
Effects of Sleep Apnea
If untreated, sleep apnea can cause numerous health problems such as:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and heart attacks
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Worsening of ADHD
Additionally, untreated sleep apnea can result in decreased performance at work, school, and in everyday tasks. It can even lead to motor vehicle accidents and academic underachievement in children.
Who Is at Risk?
Sleep apnea can affect anyone, even children. Risk factors include:
- Being male
- Being overweight
- Being over 40 years old
- Having a large neck size (17 inches or greater in men, 16 inches or greater in women)
- Large tonsils, tongue, or small jaw
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Nasal obstructions (e.g., deviated septum, allergies, or sinus problems)
Narval CC™: A Solution for Sleep Apnea
The Narval CC™ is a custom-made mandibular repositioning device (MRD). This device is comfortable, discreet, and widely accepted by patients. It works by keeping the lower jaw in a forward position, which shifts the base of the tongue and increases space behind it, preventing airway collapse.
Benefits of the Narval CC™:
- Reduces the risk of airway obstruction and decreases the frequency of apneas and hypopneas, leading to better sleep quality.
- Lessens snoring by slowing down the inhalation speed and minimizing the vibrations in the throat.
If you suffer from sleep apnea or snoring, the Narval CC™ could be an effective treatment. Contact us today to learn more.
