A group of sleep apnea patients in Vermont have stumbled
upon a novel treatment idea for taking back their health: sessions where they
play the didgeridoo, a horn-like instrument native to Australia notable for
producing long, sustained notes. For the less musically inclined, a variety of sleep apnea appliances
can also clear the airway and help facilitate better breathing.
The basic premise of oral appliance therapy is to move the
jaw slightly forward and make it easier for breath to enter the body. Patients
who suffer from obstructive
sleep apnea get less oxygen during sleep because structures in the airway
collapse, blocking the flow of breath.
When the tongue, tonsils, and other muscles or soft tissue
obstruct the airway, it can increase a patient's risk for a wide range of major
health issues. Oral appliances that can keep the airway open and breathing
steady during sleep include:
·
Mouth guards
·
Oral splints
·
Mandibular positioners
·
Oral ventilation devices
Oral appliances come in a variety of different designs. A
sleep doctor can assess your condition and recommend treatment options that
will allow you a good night's rest while keeping your airway open and combating
the onset of snoring and sleep apnea symptoms.
Please contact
a qualified sleep physician in your area or call 1-866-727-6275 (1-8-NO-PAP-MASK)
to schedule a consultation to learn more about sleep apnea diagnosis and
whether oral appliance treatment is right for you.