Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment
Obstructive sleep apnea causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, leaving you exhausted and putting strain on your heart. The board-certified sleep specialists at Sleep Health MD diagnose and treat obstructive sleep apnea for patients in Santa Cruz, Freedom, Sunnyvale, and Monterey with accurate testing, CPAP support, and advanced options like Inspire therapy.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles in the throat relax during sleep and temporarily block the airway. Breathing pauses can last from a few seconds to more than a minute and may happen dozens or even hundreds of times a night. Each pause lowers oxygen levels and briefly wakes the brain to restart breathing, which fragments sleep even if you don’t remember waking up.
OSA is different from central sleep apnea, in which the airway stays open but the brain doesn’t send a consistent signal to breathe. A milder form of airway narrowing, upper airway resistance syndrome, can also cause similar symptoms.
Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Pauses in breathing observed by a bed partner
- Waking abruptly with gasping or choking
- Excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue
- Morning headaches and dry mouth
- Trouble concentrating, irritability, or low mood
- Frequent nighttime urination
- High blood pressure and decreased libido
Risk Factors
Anyone can develop OSA, including children. Risk increases with excess weight, a large neck circumference, a narrow airway or enlarged tonsils, nasal congestion, a recessed jaw, older age, family history, smoking, and alcohol or sedative use. Teeth grinding is also commonly linked to airway problems; learn more about sleep bruxism.
Why Treating Sleep Apnea Matters
Untreated OSA is associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, atrial fibrillation, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and an increased risk of motor vehicle accidents from drowsy driving. Effective treatment can improve energy, mood, concentration, and long-term health.
How We Diagnose Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Your consultation includes a review of your symptoms and medical history and an exam of the nose, mouth, and throat. Most patients then complete a sleep study. Many adults qualify for a convenient home sleep apnea test, while others need an attended in-lab polysomnogram at our accredited sleep center. Many insurance plans cover home sleep testing when it’s medically necessary; review our accepted insurances and check with your carrier for specifics.
Treatment Options for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- CPAP therapy – the most widely used treatment, delivering gentle air pressure to keep the airway open
- Inspire therapy – an FDA-approved, mask-free implanted device for qualifying patients who struggle with CPAP
- Oral appliance therapy – a custom mouthpiece that moves the lower jaw forward during sleep
- Lifestyle changes – weight loss, regular exercise, limiting alcohol, and positional therapy
- Surgery – usually reserved for specific anatomical problems when other treatments haven’t worked
Our CPAP specialists provide intensive follow-up and compliance management. If you’ve had trouble with your mask or pressure, see our page on CPAP intolerance.
Sleep Apnea in Children
Children with OSA may snore, breathe through the mouth, wet the bed, or show hyperactivity and attention problems rather than sleepiness. Our pediatric sleep services help families get answers. Explore all conditions we treat.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment FAQs
What is the main cause of obstructive sleep apnea?
OSA occurs when the throat muscles and soft tissues relax during sleep and block the airway. Excess weight, airway anatomy, nasal congestion, and alcohol use can all contribute.
Can I have sleep apnea if I don’t snore?
Yes. Snoring is common with OSA, but not everyone with sleep apnea snores loudly. Daytime fatigue and unrefreshing sleep are also important warning signs.
Is a home sleep test accurate for sleep apnea?
Home sleep apnea tests are accurate for many adults with suspected moderate to severe OSA. Patients with other medical conditions or complex symptoms may need an in-lab study.
Is at-home sleep apnea testing covered by insurance?
Many health insurance plans provide full or partial coverage for home sleep testing when it’s medically necessary. Contact your carrier to confirm your benefits.
What is the most effective treatment for sleep apnea?
CPAP is highly effective when used consistently. For patients who can’t tolerate CPAP, Inspire therapy and oral appliances are effective alternatives for the right candidates.
Can losing weight cure sleep apnea?
Weight loss can significantly reduce sleep apnea severity and may resolve mild cases, but many patients still need additional treatment.
How do I schedule a sleep apnea evaluation?
Call (844) 387-5337 or request an appointment online with Sleep Health MD.
Breathe Easier and Sleep Better
If you snore, stop breathing in your sleep, or wake up exhausted, it’s time for an evaluation. Call (844) 387-5337 or request an appointment online to see a Sleep Health MD sleep specialist.