Sleep Apnea in North Texas

Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes repetitive interruptions in the natural breathing of a person as they sleep. There are actually three types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and complex. The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include snoring, daytime sleepiness, gasping for air during sleep, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), and episodes of not breathing. If your partner has noticed these signs or you suspect sleep apnea is the cause of your concerns, call Cross Timbers ENT. Our seasoned experts can perform a home sleep study to diagnose your condition so you can get the appropriate treatment. Reach out to our practice in Arlington, Mansfield, or Midlothian, TX to book an appointment. 

To diagnose sleep apnea, we'll obtain a throrough history and physical exam, and then proceed with a home sleep study. These tests will provide crucial insight into your sleeping habits and whether sleep apnea is the culprit of your symptoms. From there, we can review your treatment options. Depending on severity of the sleep apnea, we usually initiate treatment with positive airway pressure (CPAP or AutoPAP), or oral appliance therapy, treatment for associated medical problems, and lifestyle changes.  If patients cannot tolerate conservative management, we will consider surgical options. Each of these remedies can be discussed in detail after the completion of your initial diagnostic testing.

How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
Sleep apnea is diagnosed through a sleep study, which can be conducted at a sleep center (polysomnography) or at home using a portable monitoring device. The study records various physiological parameters, including breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain activity, to determine the presence and severity of sleep apnea.

What are the treatment options for sleep apnea?
Treatment options for sleep apnea vary based on the type and severity of the condition. Common treatments include lifestyle changes (such as weight loss, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol), CPAP therapy, oral appliances, positional therapy, and surgery to remove or reduce airway obstructions. In some cases, treating underlying medical conditions or adjusting medications may be necessary.

Can sleep apnea be cured?
While sleep apnea can often be effectively managed with treatment, it is not typically considered a curable condition, especially for obstructive and central sleep apnea. However, with proper management, individuals with sleep apnea can lead healthy, normal lives with significantly reduced symptoms.

Get a better night's sleep with premier care at Cross Timbers ENT. Our skilled experts can evaluate your sleep with an in-office or at-home sleep assessment. Discover if sleep apnea is the cause of your daytime sleepiness today. Contact our team in Mansfield, Midlothian, or Arlington, TX to set up an exam. We look forward to helping you regain optimal health.