When you find that you are having difficulty sleeping, it is a good idea to visit an ENT doctor for help. You might be a bit concerned about whether or not a doctor is qualified to treat you, but you should be relieved to learn that a good ENT doctor will listen to you and understand what you are going through. The doctor can then provide you with information that will help you improve your sleep.
CPAP
CPAP is one of the most commonly used therapies for obstructive sleep apnea. However, not everyone can tolerate this therapy. It is important to learn about the factors that lead to low adherence to this treatment.
In addition to otolaryngologic factors, there are also broader societal influences. Some individuals may not wear CPAP for social reasons. Another reason for non-adherence is cost. Patients who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea have a high risk for all-cause mortality. This is a serious problem. CPAP is considered the “gold standard” of treatment for this condition.
UPPP Surgery
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is a surgery designed to treat snoring. It removes excess soft tissue in the throat. This opens the airway, making it more likely to clear breathing obstructions. UPPP may be combined with other surgeries to treat moderate obstructive sleep apnea. While UPPP is a useful procedure, it has several risks. A major one is a nasopharyngeal stenosis. This condition occurs when the uvula becomes too large, limiting the room in the upper airway. Nasopharyngeal stenosis is extremely hard to cure and can lead to severe health problems. Other side effects of UPPP include swallowing difficulties. About a third of patients experience this problem. Some UPPP patients also complain of regurgitation when bending down to drink. Several studies have shown that most people with sleep apnea improve with UPPP. In some cases, however, the symptoms return. People with UPPP can expect to have a long recovery period.
Complementary And Alternative Medicine
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a broad term that includes therapies from different parts of the world. These include traditional medicine, herbal and nutritional therapy, and non-traditional practices like acupuncture and tai chi. In the case of insomnia, combining conventional treatments, such as antidepressants and sleeping pills, may not be enough to put a patient to sleep. Consequently, a holistic approach to treating sleep problems can be beneficial. The best way to determine if CAM will work for you is to conduct a comprehensive investigation. To do this, you must first understand what your symptoms are. A good place to start is with the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD) guideline, which contains diagnostic criteria for insomnia.
Psychologists And Psychiatrists
You need to see a specialist if you’re experiencing difficulty falling asleep or staying awake throughout the night. A psychiatrist, psychologist, or ENT doctor can help you get back on track with your sleep. Insomnia is a common problem. An imbalance in brain chemistry can cause it. This can affect your mood and your daytime sleepiness. If you’re suffering from extreme daytime sleepiness, you may experience depression, anxiety, and a decreased sex drive. Psychologists specialize in treating insomnia and other mental health issues. They provide cognitive-behavioral therapy and can help you change your behavior to prevent and treat insomnia. Psychologists can also prescribe medication for sleep problems. These medications work to correct the chemistry of the brain and body. The drugs can be used in conjunction with cognitive-behavioral therapy or alone.
