Sleep apnea is a medical disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, called apneas, can last from a few seconds to several minutes in length and may occur several times per hour. Sleep apnea disrupts the normal sleep cycle and, if left untreated, may lead to various health complications and poor sleep quality. Symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, headaches, daytime fatigue with difficulty concentrating, morning headaches, and irritability. If left untreated, sleep apnea can result in serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Three Categories of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, OSA is the most common form of the disorder, and occurs when the throat muscles relax excessively, causing a blockage in the airway. The relaxed throat muscles result in snoring, gasping, or choking as the body attempts to resume normal breathing.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control the body’s breathing.

Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome (CSAS): Also known as “treatment-emergent central sleep apnea”, CSAS is a combination of OSA and CSA.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

The causes of sleep apnea vary depending on the type, but several factors can contribute to its development.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) results from physical blockages in the airway. Contributing factors include excess weight, where fat deposits around the neck and throat can narrow the airway and increase the likelihood of breathing obstruction during sleep.

Alcohol and sedatives relax the throat muscles, increasing the risk of airway obstruction, and cigarette smoking inflames the upper airway, contributing to blockages in the airways. Chronic nasal congestion or allergies can also make it more difficult to breathe through the nose, increasing the likelihood of OSA.

Anatomical factors and physical characteristics, such as enlarged tonsils, a recessed chin, a thick neck, or a deviated nasal septum can predispose individuals to OSA.

Studies have shown that men are more likely to develop OSA than women, although the risk for women increases after menopause. As people age, the muscles in the throat naturally lose tone, making them more prone to collapse.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) is linked to issues with the brain’s ability to regulate breathing. Neurological disorders such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, formerly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) can affect the brain’s respiratory centers.

Conditions that impair heart function can also disrupt the brain’s ability to maintain normal breathing patterns. Opioids and other medications that affect the central nervous system can interfere with normal breathing regulation.

Endocrine disorders like acromegaly (excess growth hormone) and hypothyroidism can increase the risk of sleep apnea by causing tissue swelling or altering airway anatomy.

Holistic Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can significantly impact quality of life. While conventional treatments like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines and surgery are effective, many individuals seek holistic approaches to complement or replace these methods. Holistic treatments focus on addressing the root causes of sleep apnea and improving overall health through natural, non-invasive strategies.

Holistic dentistry offers various approaches to treating sleep apnea, focusing on the relationship between oral health, airway function, and overall well-being. Treatments and approaches employed by holistic dentists include:

Dietary Adjustments

Avoiding heavy meals, alcohol, and caffeine before bedtime can reduce the risk of airway obstruction. Staying hydrated is also important, as dehydration can thicken mucus and exacerbate breathing difficulties. Consuming anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, berries, and omega-3-rich fish, can support respiratory health.

One of the most common causes of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is excess weight, particularly around the neck and throat, which can obstruct the airway. Adopting a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce weight, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall well-being. Incorporating whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and reducing processed sugar can contribute to sustainable weight loss.

Breathing Patterns

Holistic approaches often emphasize proper breathing techniques such as nasal breathing to reduce apnea symptoms. Strengthening the muscles of the airway and improving breathing patterns can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms. Myofunctional therapy is an exercise program that trains the muscles around your face, tongue, and mouth to create improved airway function. Holistic dentists may collaborate with myofunctional therapists to address underlying causes of sleep apnea.

Techniques such as Buteyko breathing and pranayama (yogic breathing), can also be effective in improving airflow and reducing snoring.

Oral Appliance Therapy

Holistic dentists often design custom oral appliances (mandibular advancement devices) to reposition the jaw and tongue, keeping the airway open during sleep. These appliances are typically less invasive than CPAP machines and can be effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea. In line with holistic principles, any appliances or treatments involve non-toxic, bio-compatible materials to minimize adverse reactions.

Orthodontic Solutions

Holistic orthodontic treatments, such as palate expansion or dental arch widening, can increase airway space. Treatments are intended to correct structural issues that contribute to airway obstruction.

Tongue Tie and Frenectomy

If a restricted tongue movement (tongue-tie) contributes to airway issues, a holistic dentist may recommend a frenectomy to release the tongue and improve function.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese therapy, has been found to improve sleep quality and reduce the severity of sleep apnea symptoms in some individuals. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture may enhance muscle tone and improve airflow.

Collaboration with Other Healthcare Providers

Holistic dentists often work with sleep specialists, chiropractors, and other healthcare providers to address multifaceted causes of sleep apnea.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, or suspect you or a loved one has sleep apnea, and you would like to discuss holistic healthcare options, don’t hesitate to call us and schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you.