If you’ve been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, you might think that a CPAP machine is your only remedy. These devices can, unfortunately, be uncomfortable and noisy, leading to disrupted sleep or discomfort. Luckily for you, restful nights are possible without a CPAP machine — we’re diving deep into the realm of alternative sleep apnea treatments.
Different Paths to One Goal: Uninterrupted Breathing
As one delves into the subject, it quickly becomes apparent that sleep apnea has a variety of symptoms. From loud snoring to abrupt awakenings during the night, sleep apnea can drastically complicate the seemingly effortless task of breathing during sleep.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder. What you may not know is there’s more to sleep apnea than interrupted breathing. Although most patients are familiar with the loud snoring associated with sleep apnea, other symptoms like headaches, mood changes, difficulty concentrating, and feeling tired upon waking signify the presence of this condition.
The Limitations of CPAP Therapy
Despite being the most common treatment for sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is not always the best solution for everyone. CPAP machine users often complain about the discomfort caused by the mask itself, and the noise the machine generates can disturb their sleep, defeating the purpose of the therapy. It’s also important to note that a CPAP machine doesn’t cure sleep apnea; it merely alleviates its symptoms.
Dr. Kelley Mingus: Leading the Way in the Fight Against Sleep Apnea
All hope is not lost for those who find CPAP machines ineffective or uncomfortable. A vastly different approach to sleep apnea treatment pioneered by Dr. Kelley Mingus—based in Bend, Oregon—focuses on addressing the root cause to offer a permanent solution.
Orthotic Devices: Shaping Your Way to Healthier Sleep
Dr. Kelley Mingus specializes in using oral appliances or orthotic devices for sleep apnea treatment. These custom devices are worn in the mouth during sleep. They gently adjust the position of the jaw to create an unobstructed airway—a key to mitigating sleep apnea symptoms. Unlike a CPAP machine, they’re silent and can easily be carried around, making them an excellent option for frequent travelers.
Innovative Facial Growth Treatment
Dr. Mingus takes it a step further with his groundbreaking facial growth treatment. This treatment encourages the natural development of your jaw and airway, a groundbreaking approach to permanently clearing obstructions. This technique helps you exhale freely, reducing the likelihood of airway blockages and thus delivering a long-term solution for sleep apnea.
A Closer Look at Alternative Sleep Apnea Treatments
It’s enlightening to explore the wide range of sleep apnea treatments that go beyond the CPAP machine. Each comes with its unique benefits, and what works best for you will ultimately depend on your personal circumstances.
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)
One such alternative is Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs). As the name suggests, these devices work by advancing the lower jaw during sleep, thus helping keep the upper airway open.
Tongue Retaining Devices
Another treatment option comes in the form of tongue retaining devices. These hold the tongue forward to prevent it from blocking the airway during sleep.
Combination Therapy
If you find that one type of treatment is not enough, there’s always the possibility of combination therapy. This approach combines different therapies to maximize the benefits and minimize the downsides of each treatment.
Where To Begin Your Journey to Restful Sleep
Getting started with alternative sleep apnea treatments does not need to be an uphill climb. If you’re tired of living with the symptoms of sleep apnea and want to explore alternative treatments, reach out to experienced professionals like Dr. Kelley Mingus.
Making The Switch: Is it for you?
Interested in switching to alternative therapies? Don’t rush the process. It’s essential to discuss your thoughts and concerns with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your current health status, lifestyle, and treatment preferences.
Stepping into a Restful Night: Know What To Expect
Stepping into the use of orthotic devices or other treatments may seem daunting at first. However, understanding the process and what to expect can go a long way in calming any anxieties. The process usually begins with an in-depth consultation, followed by individualized treatment planning, device fitting, and regular follow-ups to monitor progress.
Alternative sleep apnea treatments, such as those provided by Dr. Kelley Mingus, offer more than just symptom relief—they offer the potential for a lasting cure.