The Latest Treatments for Sleep Apnea: What Works Best?

If you've ever spent nights tossing and turning while your partner complains about your snoring, or if you wake up feeling exhausted despite a full night's sleep, you might be one of the millions of Americans living with sleep apnea. This common but serious sleep disorder doesn't just rob you of rest—it can impact your overall health and quality of life.

Here in New Orleans, where we celebrate life and culture, struggling through each day with fatigue isn't how anyone wants to live. The good news is that treatment options for sleep apnea have come a long way, and at ENT & Allergy of New Orleans, we're committed to helping you find the solution that works best for your unique situation. Let's explore the latest and most effective treatments that could help you reclaim your nights and energize your days.

Common Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition that causes people to stop breathing for short periods while they sleep. This can lead to loud snoring, poor sleep quality, and serious health risks like high blood pressure and heart disease. Fortunately, there are effective treatments that can help.

1.   CPAP Machines

A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is one of the most common treatments for sleep apnea. It works by delivering a steady flow of air through a mask to keep the airway open. While some people find the mask uncomfortable at first, modern CPAP machines are quieter and more adjustable than older versions.

2.   Oral Appliances

For those who can’t tolerate a CPAP machine, a dentist can provide a custom-made oral appliance. These devices help keep the lower jaw in a position that prevents the airway from collapsing. They’re smaller and easier to use than CPAP machines, making them a good option for mild to moderate sleep apnea.

3.   Lifestyle Changes

●      Weight Loss: Extra weight around the neck can put pressure on the airway, making it harder to breathe at night. Losing weight can reduce or even eliminate sleep apnea symptoms in some people.

●      Sleeping Position: Sleeping on your back can make sleep apnea worse. Many people find relief by sleeping on their side instead.

●      Avoiding Alcohol and Sedatives: These substances relax the throat muscles, which can lead to more airway blockages.

New and Advanced Treatments

1.   Inspire Therapy (Implantable Device)

This treatment involves a small device implanted under the skin of the chest. It works by sending mild pulses to the tongue and airway muscles to keep them from collapsing during sleep. Unlike a CPAP machine, there’s no mask or hose, and it’s controlled with a small remote.

2.   Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure (EPAP) Devices

EPAP devices are small, disposable valves that attach to the nostrils. When you breathe out, they create pressure that helps keep the airway open. These are a good option for people who have mild sleep apnea and don’t want to use a CPAP machine.

3.   Surgery for Sleep Apnea

For people with severe sleep apnea who don’t respond to other treatments, surgery may be an option. Some procedures involve removing excess tissue from the throat, while others adjust the position of the jaw to create more space for airflow. Surgery is usually considered a last resort when other treatments haven’t worked.

4. Injection Snoreplasty

Injection Snoreplasty is a minimally invasive treatment used to reduce snoring. It involves injecting a hardening agent into the soft palate (roof of the mouth), which causes the tissue to stiffen and vibrate less during sleep. First introduced by military doctors in 2000, this technique can help make snoring quieter and less frequent — though it may not be the right solution for everyone.

Which Treatment Works Best?

The best treatment depends on the severity of sleep apnea and what works best for each person. CPAP machines remain the most effective option for many people, but newer treatments like Inspire therapy and EPAP devices are making it easier to manage sleep apnea.

If you or someone you know has sleep apnea, it’s important to seek treatment. Getting better sleep can improve overall health and reduce the risk of serious complications. A doctor can help find the right option based on individual needs.

Your Journey to Better Sleep Starts Now

Living with sleep apnea doesn't have to be your new normal. Whether it's a simple lifestyle change, a modern CPAP device, an innovative oral appliance, or one of the newer surgical options, there's a treatment approach that can work for you. At ENT & Allergy of New Orleans, we understand that each patient's experience with sleep apnea is unique, which is why we take the time to create personalized treatment plans.

Remember, taking that first step toward treatment isn't just about stopping the snoring—it's about improving your overall health, enhancing your daily energy, and potentially adding years to your life. Your journey to better sleep and better health can begin with a simple consultation. Why spend another night struggling when relief could be just around the corner? Give us a call.