Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Man snoring due to sleep apnea while wife is covering her ears and face with a pillow in bed

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common condition that involves breathing problems during sleep, as the throat muscles relax and block the airway. Patients with OSA often experience loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, insomnia and waking up with a sore throat. This condition can affect anyone, but most commonly presents in middle age with the probability of developing OSA increasing with age. To officially diagnose OSA, a sleep study, is necessary.

How is OSA treated?

Treatment of OSA is important as untreated OSA can increase your risk of high blood pressure, high blood sugars, cardiac abnormalities/arrythmias, potential heart attacks, urinary problems and potential stroke and/or neurological decline.

The gold standard therapy for OSA is the use of a positive airway pressure machine (CPAP). Other options include oral appliances and surgery. At Metro ENT and Facial Plastic Surgery, our physicians help to guide you through your diagnosis of OSA as well as discuss treatment options and work with you to create your best treatment option to optimize your sleep quality. For those who cannot tolerate CPAP or oral appliances, our surgeons can discuss what surgical options are available to help optimize management of your OSA. Surgical options can focus on improving nasal breathing to improve CPAP tolerance or may include procedures to widen the airway at the level of the palate and throat via traditional techniques and/or the use of an implantable device (Inspire® – hypoglossal nerve stimulator).

Inspire® Sleep Apnea Therapy

Discover how Inspire® Sleep Apnea Innovation stands as a pioneering solution for individuals seeking effective alternatives to traditional treatments.

Inspire Therapy remote for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) on table

What is the Inspire® Sleep Apnea Innovation? 

Inspire® therapy marks a paradigm shift in OSA treatment, especially for those struggling with conventional methods like CPAP machines. This cutting-edge therapy involves a minimally-invasive procedure to implant a small device to minimize your obstructive sleep events and improve your quality of sleep. 

How Inspire® Works: 

Inspire® therapy actively monitors sleep patterns, intervening when airway obstructions are detected. By gently stimulating the hypoglossal nerve responsible for airway muscle control, it prevents blockages, ensuring uninterrupted breathing throughout the night. 

Benefits of Inspire® Therapy: 

  • Efficacy: Clinical studies validate the effectiveness of Inspire® therapy in significantly reducing obstructive sleep apnea episodes and enhancing sleep quality. 
  • Comfort: Unlike bulky CPAP masks, Inspire® therapy offers discreet and minimally invasive relief, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience. 
  • Long-Term Wellness: By addressing OSA, Inspire® therapy not only relieves symptoms but also reduces risks of associated health complications such as cardiovascular events and stroke. 

 At Metro ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery, we're dedicated to empowering individuals with obstructive sleep apnea to reclaim restful nights and energized days. Experience the life-changing benefits of Inspire® Sleep Apnea Innovation and embark on a journey toward improved sleep quality and overall well-being. Schedule a consultation with our expert team in Rockville, Maryland, today and take the first step toward a healthier, revitalized life.