Sleep apnea is a serious condition that causes interruptions in breathing during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is caused by a physical blockage, often due to the collapse of soft tissue in the throat. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to health issues such as cardiovascular disease, daytime fatigue, and cognitive impairments.
There are various treatment options available for people diagnosed with sleep apnea, including continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, and lifestyle modifications [1]. In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to correct structural problems that contribute to the condition.
But what happens when you feel you’ve successfully treated sleep apnea—can the condition return? Here’s what you need to know.
Factors that May Contribute to Recurrence
Sleep apnea can return in some cases, even after a successful treatment. Several factors can contribute to the return of sleep apnea, including:
- Weight gain. Excess weight, especially around the throat, can contribute to the likelihood of airway blockages [2].
- Aging. As we age, changes in muscle tone and reduced elasticity in throat tissues can worsen airway obstructions.
- Lifestyle changes. Smoking or heavy alcohol consumption can negatively impact the airways and lead to a recurrence of sleep apnea.
- Nasal conditions. Allergies, sinus problems, or nasal congestion can disrupt airflow and contribute to the return of sleep apnea symptoms.
- Equipment issues. Issues with CPAP equipment or oral appliances—or failing to use them consistently—can render the treatment less effective, leading to recurrent symptoms.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Post-treatment monitoring is crucial to ensure that sleep apnea does not return or worsen. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers can help track the effectiveness of the treatments and make necessary adjustments if symptoms reappear.
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea and have had a successful treatment protocol, it’s still important to:
- Get regular check-ups. Schedule regular exams with your healthcare provider or sleep specialist to review your current status and make necessary changes.
- Stay healthy. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by managing weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption can decrease the risk of recurrence.
- Be consistent with treatment. Be sure to consistently use recommended oral devices or CPAP machines and consult with a specialist if adjustments or replacements are necessary [3].
When to Seek Further Treatment
Since sleep apnea can cause such severe side effects, it’s crucial to watch for signs that may signal the return of the condition. Pay attention to symptoms such as snoring, waking up gasping for air, excessive daytime sleepiness, and irritability. If you notice these symptoms returning, it’s essential to seek further assessment and intervention.
Contact Your Dentist
While sleep apnea is managed with the help of a sleep specialist, dentists play a vital role when it comes to oral appliance therapy. These appliances can be highly effective alternatives to CPAP machines for many people with sleep apnea.
If you suspect your sleep apnea has returned despite previous treatment or you’re interested in exploring oral appliance therapy, contact your dentist. Together, we can work towards ensuring that you achieve a restful night’s sleep!
Sources:
- https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-apnea/treatment
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3021364/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4232454/Â
