Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome (OSAHS) is characterized by repeated breathing pauses during sleep. This condition is often associated with snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. Symptoms—whether occurring at night or during the day—can vary from person to person. What is certain is that sleep becomes highly disrupted and non-restorative, potentially leading to serious long-term health consequences. Seeking treatment for sleep apnea is essential, and you should not hesitate to consult your doctor.

1. CPAP Therapy (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)

The most widely used and most effective treatment for sleep apnea is CPAP therapy. This method involves delivering a constant flow of air into the upper airways via a hose and a mask, which keeps the airways open and prevents apneas from occurring.

After a diagnosis—based on polygraphy or polysomnography—your doctor will provide you with your Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI). CPAP is generally recommended for:

  • People with an AHI over 30 (severe apnea)
  • People with an AHI between 15 and 30 (moderate apnea) who also have serious cardiovascular conditions (e.g. resistant hypertension, prior stroke, recurrent atrial fibrillation)

CPAP therapy is covered and reimbursed by public health insurance. You are free to choose your own healthcare provider to supply the equipment (machine and mask). This provider will also handle at-home installation and provide on going support and maintenance.

Although adjusting to sleeping every night with a mask and a machine can be difficult, CPAP remains a highly effective and non-invasive treatment, helping to significantly improve your health and quality of life.

2. Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD)

The mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a dental appliance designed to bring the lower jaw forward and hold it in place. This prevents the tongue from collapsing backward and keeps the airway open at the level of the pharynx.

It consists of dental trays custom-fitted to your teeth. Some models are custom-made, while others—such as the Somnofit-S sold on Confort Boutik—are thermoformable at home.

This device is ideal for individuals with moderate sleep apnea (AHI between 15 and 30) who do not have associated cardiovascular diseases. However, if MAD therapy proves ineffective, CPAP will then be proposed.

One benefit of MADs is that they can also be used occasionally for snoring during the day—for example, during long trips (train, plane), or while napping.

This treatment may also be covered by health insurance, subject to prior agreement filled out by the prescribing doctor at the first prescription and upon renewal.

3. Surgical Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Surgical intervention is considered in special cases, particularly when there are anatomical abnormalities in the ENT or maxillofacial regions, or when other treatments have failed.

Surgery may involve:

  • The soft palate or tissues at the back of the throat
  • The tonsils
  • The nasal septum
  • The jaw

Coverage and reimbursement depend on the type of surgery performed.


Conclusion

The choice of treatment for sleep apnea depends on the severity of the condition and your ability or willingness to accept a particular therapy. Regardless of the chosen treatment, it is important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits as a first step to managing sleep apnea and improving overall health:

  • Engage in regular physical activity
  • Quit smoking
  • Reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption
  • Follow a weight loss program if overweight or obese

Speak with your doctor for a personalized assessment and to determine the most suitable treatment for your condition.

 

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