Take Nighttime Breathing Seriously
Expert evaluation for interrupted breathing and airway-related sleep problems.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, happens when the upper airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing and disrupted sleep. CPAP remains the primary treatment for most patients, but an ENT evaluation can identify anatomical issues, especially nasal obstruction, that may contribute to OSA or make CPAP harder to tolerate.
A deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, nasal polyps, or chronic rhinitis can restrict nasal airflow and worsen sleep apnea or make CPAP therapy more difficult to use. Treating nasal obstruction does not cure OSA, but it may improve CPAP tolerance and reduce symptom severity.
An ENT evaluation may benefit patients with OSA who have significant nasal obstruction, those who cannot tolerate CPAP because of nasal symptoms, or those considering surgical options for sleep apnea. I evaluate the nasal and upper airway anatomy and can treat structural factors contributing to nasal obstruction.
A sleep study, either polysomnography or a home sleep apnea test, is required to diagnose OSA. Treatment is coordinated with sleep medicine specialists. My role is to assess and address upper airway anatomy that may contribute to OSA or affect available treatment options.