Upper airway obstruction

What is Upper Airway Obstruction?

Upper airway obstruction occurs when there is partial or complete blockage of the upper airway during sleep. This obstruction can impede the normal flow of air, leading to disruptions in breathing and potentially impacting the quality of sleep.

Causes:

  • Tongue or Soft Palate Collapse: Relaxation of the muscles in the throat can cause the tongue or soft palate to collapse backward.
  • Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids: Common in children, enlarged tonsils or adenoids can obstruct the airway.
  • Nasal Congestion: Blockages in the nasal passages can contribute to upper airway obstruction.
  • Anatomical Issues: Structural abnormalities in the upper airway, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps.
A man sleeping in bed with an oxygen mask on.

Symptoms:

  • Loud Snoring: Snoring may be more pronounced and accompanied by labored breathing.
  • Pauses in Breathing: Brief interruptions in breathing, often followed by gasping for air.
  • Restless Sleep: Frequent awakenings or tossing and turning during the night.
  • Daytime Fatigue: Insufficient oxygen intake can lead to daytime sleepiness and fatigue.
  • Morning Headaches: Resulting from oxygen deprivation during sleep.

Treatment at Sleep Matters MD:

Our approach to addressing upper airway obstruction at Sleep Matters MD involves a thorough evaluation to determine the specific factors contributing to the obstruction:

  • Diagnostic Assessments: Comprehensive evaluations, including sleep studies if necessary, to identify the nature and severity of the upper airway obstruction.
  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): Effective for maintaining a continuous and unobstructed airflow, particularly in cases where the obstruction is related to muscle relaxation.
  • Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP): Adjusts air pressure levels during both inhalation and exhalation, providing a customized solution for certain individuals.
  • Oral Appliances: Custom-fitted devices to reposition the jaw and tongue, helping to keep the airway open during sleep.
  • Surgical Interventions: In cases of anatomical issues or persistent obstruction, surgical options may be considered to address the root causes.
  • Treatment of Nasal Issues: Addressing nasal congestion or deformities to improve airflow.

Regular follow-up appointments ensure the effectiveness of the chosen treatment plan. Our team at Sleep Matters MD is dedicated to providing ongoing support, making adjustments as needed to optimize treatment and improve overall sleep quality.

If you suspect upper airway obstruction is impacting your sleep or well-being, schedule a consultation with Sleep Matters MD. Our specialists are here to provide personalized and comprehensive care to address your specific needs.  

Why Choose Sleep Matters MD?

Expert Guidance: At Sleep Matters MD, our team of seasoned professionals is committed to guiding you through the journey to optimal sleep health. Trust in their expertise as they provide personalized solutions for your unique sleep concerns.

Comprehensive Care: We go beyond assessments and treatments, offering comprehensive care tailored to your specific sleep challenges. Our approach involves understanding the intricacies of your sleep patterns, addressing underlying issues, and crafting individualized treatment plans to ensure long-term improvements in sleep quality.

A man laying in bed with his head on the pillow.

Personalized Attention: Benefit from personalized attention, acknowledging that each individual’s sleep needs are different. Our team tailors interventions to address your specific challenges and promote a noticeable improvement in your sleep quality.

Flexible Testing Options: Choose between the convenience of home sleep testing and the comprehensive monitoring of in-lab testing. Our flexible testing options cater to your preferences, ensuring accurate diagnoses in a manner that suits your lifestyle.

Telemedicine Consultations: Experience the convenience of sleep consultations and follow-ups through telemedicine. We understand the importance of accessibility, allowing you to connect with our specialists virtually for personalized guidance from the comfort of your own space.

Coordinated Services: Our center offers a wide range of coordinated services by a close-knit, diverse health care team. Enjoy the benefits of a collaborative approach to your sleep care, ensuring comprehensive support and expertise.

Understanding Sleep Challenges: Our health care providers understand the challenges patients with sleep difficulties experience and are eager to help them achieve improved sleep and overall health. Feel confident in our team’s empathy and commitment to assisting you on your journey to better sleep.

Diverse Services for Insomnia: For Insomnia patients, we offer personalized, non-medication-based Behavioral Sleep Medicine services for all age groups (6 months and up), including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). Tailored interventions ensure effective and sustainable improvements.

State-of-the-Art Sleep Study Facility: Our associations with Advocate, Advent Health, and Midwest Center for Sleep Disorders Labs provide access to state-of-the-art sleep study facilities. Experience advanced testing equipment, comfortable bedrooms, and bathrooms for accurate diagnoses.

Specialized Medical Management: Benefit from medical management of Positive Airway Pressure Therapy for sleep apnea (AutoPAP, CPAP, BiPAP, and ASV), including in-person assistance with CPAP mask fitting and equipment provided by Sleep Technologists through DME companies.

Comprehensive Referral Network: Access a comprehensive referral network, including Behavioral Sleep Medicine Specialists, Registered Sleep Technologists for CPAP intolerance and claustrophobia, ENT Physicians for surgical options (including Inspire), specialized dentists certified in Dental Sleep Medicine for oral appliance treatment, and consultation for medically supervised weight loss with Obesity Medicine Specialists. Choose Sleep Matters MD for unparalleled expertise, personalized care, and a comprehensive approach to addressing your sleep health needs.

We’ll Help You Sleep Better. At Night. Every Night. Without Drugs.

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