Sleep apnea is a prevalent sleep disorder affecting millions worldwide, including many residents of Portugal. 

This condition, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, can lead to various health issues if left untreated. While Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, a type of Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) treatment, is often the first-line approach, many patients struggle with its use. 

This article explores the symptoms of sleep apnea, diagnostic procedures, and alternative treatment options available in Lisbon and Evora, with a focus on non-PAP interventions.

Understanding Sleep Apnea and Its Impact

Sleep apnea occurs when breathing is repeatedly interrupted or diminished during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur 30 times or more per hour. The most common type is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), where the airway becomes blocked or collapses during sleep.

Health Consequences of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Untreated sleep apnea can lead to numerous health issues, including:

• Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
• Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
• Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
• Mood disorders, including anxiety and depression
• High blood pressure
• Type 2 diabetes
• Liver problems

Recognizing Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:

1. Loud and chronic snoring
2. Observed pauses in breathing during sleep
3. Gasping or choking during sleep
4. Morning headaches
5. Excessive daytime sleepiness
6. Insomnia or restless sleep
7. Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
8. Mood changes and irritability
9. Decreased libido

If you experience several of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a sleep specialist for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea in Lisbon and Evora

The gold standard for diagnosing sleep apnea is polysomnography, a comprehensive sleep study that records various physiological parameters during sleep. At our clinics in Lisbon and Evora, we primarily use the following types of sleep studies:

1. Type II Polysomnography (Home Test): This is our standard approach for most patients. Type II studies are comprehensive home sleep tests that record similar parameters to in-lab studies, including:
   • Brain waves (EEG)
   • Eye movements (EOG)
   • Muscle activity (EMG)
   • Heart rate and rhythm (ECG)
   • Breathing patterns and blood oxygen levels
   • Body position

Type II studies offer the comfort of sleeping in your own bed, simulating as far as possible your sleep environment,  while still providing detailed data for accurate diagnosis.

2. Type III Sleep Studies: In some cases, we may use Type III sleep studies, which are less comprehensive but still provide valuable data. These typically measure:
   • Airflow
   • Breathing effort
   • Blood oxygen levels
   • Heart rate
   • Body position

While not as detailed as Type II studies, Type III tests can be useful for screening or monitoring therapy results.

The choice of sleep study type depends on various factors, including the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and specific diagnostic needs. Our sleep specialists will determine the most appropriate test for each individual patient, ensuring an accurate diagnosis to guide effective treatment planning. In case you need an in-lab polysomnography we will redirect you accordingly.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

PAP Therapy: The Standard Treatment

Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy remains the gold standard for treating moderate to severe sleep apnea. The classical setting pattern is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). PAP devices deliver air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep. While highly effective when used consistently, many patients struggle with PAP adherence due to discomfort, claustrophobia, or lifestyle inconvenience.

Alternatives to PAP Therapy

For patients who cannot tolerate PAP devices or prefer other options, several alternatives are available in Lisbon and Evora:

1. Oral Appliances

Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are custom-fitted oral appliances that reposition the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. These devices are often effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea and can be more comfortable than PAP therapy for some patients.

2. Positional Therapy

For individuals who experience apneas primarily when sleeping on their back, positional therapy devices can help maintain a side-sleeping position throughout the night.

3. Surgical Options

Various surgical procedures can address anatomical issues contributing to sleep apnea:

• Nasal Surgery: Correcting a deviated septum or reducing turbinates can improve nasal breathing.
• Palatal Surgery: This category includes various techniques, with many modern approaches focusing on palatal suspension. These surgeries aim to reduce obstruction and vibration in the soft palate area, potentially improving both sleep apnea and snoring.
• Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA): Moves the upper and lower jaws forward to enlarge the airway space. This procedure is considered highly effective for severe sleep apnea.

These surgical interventions can be performed individually or in combination, depending on the patient’s specific anatomical issues and severity of sleep apnea. The choice of procedure is based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s airway and overall health status.

Note: While hypoglossal nerve stimulation is an emerging treatment for sleep apnea, it is not currently offered at our clinics in Lisbon and Evora, but we will redirect your case accordingly.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Weight loss: Obesity is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea. Losing weight can reduce the severity of symptoms or even resolve mild cases.
• Avoiding alcohol and sedatives: These substances can relax throat muscles, worsening apneas.
• Smoking cessation: Smoking can increase upper airway inflammation and fluid retention.

Take the First Step Towards Better Sleep and Health Today

Don’t let sleep apnea control your life any longer. If you’ve recognized any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, or if you’re struggling with your current sleep apnea treatment, it’s time to take action.

At our specialized appointments in Lisbon and Evora, we offer comprehensive sleep apnea diagnosis and a wide range of treatment options, including alternatives to traditional CPAP therapy. Our team of experienced sleep specialists is ready to provide you with personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

Here’s How You Can Start Your Journey to Better Sleep:

1. Schedule a Consultation: Contact our clinic to book an initial assessment with one of our sleep specialists.
2. Get Properly Diagnosed: Undergo a state-of-the-art sleep study, typically conducted in the comfort of your own home with our advanced Type II polysomnography equipment.
3. Explore Your Options: Work with our experts to find the treatment approach that best suits your lifestyle and health needs, whether it’s optimizing PAP therapy or exploring surgical alternatives.
4. Reclaim Your Sleep and Health: Experience the life-changing benefits of effective sleep apnea treatment, from improved energy levels to reduced health risks.

Don’t wait another night. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards restful sleep and improved overall health. Your journey to better sleep starts here, in Lisbon or Evora.