Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?

Not always. While occasional snoring can be harmless, loud, frequent snoring accompanied by choking, gasping, pauses in breathing, or excessive daytime sleepiness may be a sign of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). A sleep evaluation can help determine the cause.

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When should I get a sleep study?

You should consider a sleep study if you experience loud snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing during sleep, excessive daytime fatigue, morning headaches, poor concentration, or have conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, or atrial fibrillation. A sleep study is the gold standard for diagnosing sleep apnea and other sleep disorders.

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What is CPAP therapy?

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy uses a gentle stream of air delivered through a mask to keep your airway open while you sleep. It is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and helps improve sleep quality while reducing long-term health risks.

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Can sleep apnea be treated without surgery?

Yes. Many patients can be successfully treated without surgery. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, weight management, CPAP or BiPAP therapy, oral appliances such as Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD), positional therapy, or medical management. Surgery is recommended only for carefully selected patients after a comprehensive evaluation.

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What is Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE)?

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) is a specialized procedure performed under light sedation to evaluate the airway while you are in a sleep-like state. It helps identify the exact location and pattern of airway collapse, allowing your doctor to recommend the most appropriate treatment or surgical option.

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What is a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD)?

A Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) is a custom-made oral appliance that gently moves the lower jaw forward during sleep to help keep the airway open. It is often recommended for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

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Who may benefit from jaw surgery for sleep apnea?

Jaw surgery may be considered for patients whose sleep apnea is related to a small, retruded, or underdeveloped upper or lower jaw. Procedures such as Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA) can enlarge the airway and provide long-term improvement in carefully selected patients after evaluation by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

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Can a deviated septum worsen sleep apnea?

A deviated septum can contribute to nasal obstruction and make breathing through the nose more difficult, which may worsen snoring and affect CPAP comfort. While it is not always the primary cause of sleep apnea, correcting significant nasal blockage can improve airflow and support overall treatment.

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What happens during a sleep consultation?

During your consultation, your sleep specialist will review your symptoms, medical history, sleep habits, and risk factors. Depending on your condition, you may undergo a sleep study, airway evaluation, ENT examination, or jaw assessment. Our multidisciplinary team then develops a personalized treatment plan based on the findings.

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Can untreated sleep apnea affect heart health?

Yes. Untreated obstructive sleep apnea has been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, irregular heart rhythms, stroke, diabetes, and other metabolic conditions. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve your overall health and quality of life while reducing these long-term risks.