Snoring is more than just a nuisance to sleeping partners—it may be a sign of a more serious, chronic problem known as obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Lenny Slepchik ,in downtown Montreal, describes obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, as a concerning sleeping disorder that can cause patients to stop breathing hundreds of times in one night. Patients with this condition often deal with daytime fatigue even after what they believe was a good night’s rest. This fatigue can impact all areas of their lives, including their relationships, careers, and day-to-day activities. However, with a proper diagnosis and effective treatment, patients can regain their lifestyle and enjoy feeling refreshed when they get up each morning !
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
As stated in its name, obstructive sleep apnea is caused by an obstruction. This obstruction may be the tongue falling back in the throat or excess fat in the neck area pressing down and causing a blockage in the airways. When this occurs, the patient stops breathing, and may awaken gasping for air. When this happens hundreds of times each night, it can keep the patient from reaching the deep level of sleep needed to regenerate their energy and help them function at their best every day. In turn, patients will experience the continued signs of sleep deprivation, feeling tired every morning and throughout the day. The dangers of this condition include increased risk for car accidents, as well as impaired memory and concentration that can impact on one’s job.
What can be done for obstructive sleep apnea?
Primary care physicians who diagnose patients with obstructive sleep apnea often recommend treatment with a specialized machine called a CPAP machine. However, this machine is cumbersome for many patients, causing them to avoid using it. This leaves their condition untreated. However, Dr. Slepchik may recommend the use of an oral appliance therapy called a DSAD. (Dental Sleep Apnea Device). A specialized sleep apnea device is worn in the mouth at night to maintain open airways, eliminating the need for treatments using a CPAP machine. This option is much more comfortable for our patients. They will comply better with treatment than they did with the use of a CPAP device. It is important to remember that in mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, the DSAD is 100% effective. In more severe cases, if the patient is not using his CPAP to get help and relief of symptoms, the DSAD may be a good alternative.
Contact Dr. Lenny Slepchik and his team today!
Patients in downtown Montreal who are dealing with chronic snoring and obstructive sleep apnea are welcome to book an appointment with us to discuss the advantages of oral appliance therapy. We are located at 800 Boul. Rene-Levesque O, Suite #310 and can be reached by phone at (514) 875-7971 or email us at reception@smilesbydrslepchik.com.