Several Sleep Apnea treatment options available

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MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) - The body and mind need sleep in order to function properly. Sleep apnea, or constantly stopping and starting breathing at night, is one of the things holding millions of Americans back properly sleeping.

It often goes undiagnosed, but does come with surprisingly apparent symptoms.

"If you look at some of the most commonly treated conditions in America right now--blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, erectile dysfunction, diabetes, anxiety, depression, headaches--all of those can be associated with with an obstructed airway," Alpha Omega Dental owner Dr. Cynthia Wiggins said.

Products are available to open the airway. The C-PAP machine is one of the most recognizable treatments, and is covered by most insurances. It is used to prevent both snoring, and sleep apnea.

Other less aggressive options include custom-fitted mouth pieces provided by dentists, that are also covered by insurance. Other options can be bought online for about $100.

"For example this is an appliance that is considered a boil-and-bite. You bite into it similarly to a football appliance and then it is what is used to keep jaw in a stable position," Dr. Wiggins said. "This particular type of appliance is called a Zyppah and you can get it online, but you [have to] realize that you should not get one unless you have a diagnosis of sleep apnea."

On top of speaking with your doctor about such a serious medical problem, a proper bed can assist in a good night's sleep, and a new bed can be reasonably priced.

"I guess it depends. When customers come to us, we take their budget into consideration. If someone is looking for a bed for $399 or $499, we carry the best quality products for the money. If they want something $7,000 to $8,000, we also have that as well," saidKarl Shunk Jr. of Shunk Furniture. "The best thing you can do is try out a bed and see what's comfortable for you."

Doctors say a healthier lifestyle including proper diet, exercise and weight loss can prevent sleep apnea from occurring. However, if you're experiencing multiple symptoms, you should should speak with your physician.

