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Our staff includes a specialist in Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Snoring disorders.  Sleep Apnea is a very common chronic disorder that may create respiratory or cardiovascular complications if left untreated.

 

Snoring occurs when the structures in the throat are large and when the muscles relax enough to cause the airway to narrow and partially obstruct the flow of air.  As air tries to pass through these obstructions, the throat structures vibrate causing a sound we know as snoring.  Large tonsils, a long soft plate and uvula and excess fat deposits contribute to airway narrowing.

When Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat.  This blocks the upper airway, causing air flow to stop.  When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again - usually with a loud gasp.  People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep, and low blood oxygen levels.  OSA has been associated with cardiovascular problems and excessive daytime sleepiness.  The condition known as upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) lies midway between benign snoring and true obstructive sleep apnea.  People with UARS suffer many of the symptoms of OSA but normal sleep testing will be negative.

 

Mouth appliances that keep the tongue in the correct position and not allowing the throat structures to become narrowed and therefore causing you to snore are available to help you comfortably sleep without snoring.  Ask us for the different options that will be best for you to help with your sleeping disorder.

The TAP® Oral Appliance

 

Contact us at one of our nine locations: Tempe Mesa Chandler Ahwatukee Scottsdale Peoria Surprise Laveen Tucson Specialists located at Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale, Peoria, Laveen, and Tucson