Sleep Apnea

As an Ear Nose & Throat (ENT) surgeon, I have treated numerous patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where the upper airway is partially or completely blocked during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing and disrupted sleep. OSA is a serious condition that can have significant impacts on a patient's quality of life and overall health.

I've seen firsthand how patients suffering from OSA can experience daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, headaches, and even depression. They may also be at an increased risk for other health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. That's why it's crucial for patients to seek medical attention if they suspect they have OSA.

When a patient comes to me with symptoms of OSA, the first step is to conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical exam, a sleep study, and other tests as needed. From there, I work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan.

One common treatment for OSA is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, which involves wearing a mask over the nose and/or mouth during sleep. The mask is connected to a machine that delivers a continuous stream of air to keep the airway open. While CPAP therapy can be effective, it's not always well-tolerated by patients and may not be the best option for everyone.

In some cases, surgery may be recommended to treat OSA. Surgery can be especially beneficial for patients with specific anatomical features, such as enlarged tonsils or a deviated septum, that are contributing to their OSA. As an experienced ENT surgeon, I have performed a variety of procedures to treat OSA, including tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, and nasal surgery.

I recently had a patient, a middle-aged man, who came to me complaining of loud snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. After a thorough evaluation, we determined that he had moderate OSA due to enlarged tonsils and a deviated septum. We discussed various treatment options, and he ultimately decided to undergo surgery to remove his tonsils and correct his septum.

Following the surgery, the patient reported significant improvement in his sleep quality and overall energy levels. He no longer woke up feeling tired and was able to focus better throughout the day. It was rewarding to see such a positive outcome and to know that I could make a real difference in this patient's life.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of OSA, I encourage you to seek medical attention. With proper evaluation and treatment, OSA can be effectively managed, and patients can experience improved sleep, better health, and a better quality of life.