Anyone what suffers from sleep apnea or has a family member that does probably recognizes that it can have detrimental impacts on a person’s overall well-being. This can leave a person tired during the day and cause cardiovascular and breathing issues. For those that have already visited a doctor and tried non-surgical treatments like breathing machines with little luck, it might be time to consider a procedure for the problem. There are several options, so it is important to understand what they are and how they are performed. Here are some things to consider and discuss with a physician.
Nasal Surgery
A septoplasty is done to correct a deviated nasal cavity. It is generally done as an outpatient procedure. When there is a deviated septum, the divider between the two nostrils is crooked, causing partial or complete blockage of the canal. Having Nasal Surgery in Bethlehem PA corrects the shifted cavity and makes air pass through the sinuses easier. When considering this procedure as a sleep apnea treatment, it is important to talk to the doctor about the factors contributing to the condition and if it is due to a deviated septum.
Palatal Surgery
Palatal surgeries address abnormalities in the soft palate and normally allow the airway to widen after recovery. A common type of surgery for sleep apnea is uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, which is done on the back of the roof of the mouth. During the procedure, the doctor will remove excess tissue to open up the airway, making it easier for the patient to breathe. Palate issues are very common causes for sleep apnea. Discuss the symptoms with a doctor to see if there is a connection.
Tongue Base Surgery
If a patient’s sleep apnea is related to tongue issues, a physician may discuss a procedure to reduce the volume of tissue. This usually involves administering radio frequency waves on the back of the tongue. This typically requires four to six sessions, resulting in a firmer, smaller tongue base.
Those considering Nasal Surgery in Bethlehem PA, or those wanting to discuss their options can turn to Allen ENT. The surgeons here treat adults and children. They specialize in a variety of surgical procedures. To get more information and see a full list of services visit Allen-ent.com.
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