Sleep Apnea Management Rockville, MD

Sleep Apnea Management Rockville, MD

If you are seeking sleep apnea management in Rockville, MD, please reach out to the Pain Arthritis Relief Center now. 

Sleep apnea is considered to be a serious, even life-threatening medical condition. It is actually more common than realized and can affect people of all ages and genders. However, it is more common in men. At this time, 20 million Americans have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. It is possible to treat the condition with sleep apnea management in Rockville, Maryland. To learn more, call the Pain Arthritis Relief Center.

Approximately 40 million Americans have difficulty sleeping. When left untreated, a person’s mental, physical, and emotional health can be effective. This is because sleep is an important restorative function for the entire body. Between 5 and 7 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. This is a condition that can affect a person of any age or gender. Sleep apnea is characterized by breathing difficulties during sleep. Not only can this result in a lack of restful sleep, but also many health complications; of which can be dangerous.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a type of severe breathing disorder that is characterized by brief interruptions of breathing during a person’s sleep. There are three different kinds of the condition; all of which require sleep apnea management in Rockville, MD or elsewhere. 

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea – This occurs the air is unable to flow into or out of the mouth or nose even though there are efforts made to breathe. 
  • Central Sleep Apnea – When the brain fails to send the correct signals to the muscles responsible for breathing, it is considered to be CSA. This form of apnea is not as common. Complex Sleep Apnea – Complex sleep apnea is a form of apnea that combines the symptoms of obstructive and central sleep apnea. 

Sleep apnea causes disturbances in a person’s sleep. There can be between 20 and 40 events per hour, and between these events loud snoring may occur. It must be noted that just because a person snores does not mean they have sleep apnea. The frequent disruptions in sleep tend to cause ongoing drowsiness, irritability, and headaches. Sleep apnea management in Rockville, MD may be able to reduce these effects. 

When sleep apnea goes undiagnosed, the person may be more vulnerable to suffering from:

  • Cardiovascular problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack
  • Drowsiness
  • Higher risk of accidents

Part of sleep apnea management in Rockville, MD is the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Device, also known as a CPAP device. These devices are a machine that must be worn every night. Some people find them to be inconvenient or uncomfortable; however, they are effective in opening the airways and allowing a person to get a good night’s sleep. 

In addition to using a CPAP machine, chiropractic treatment can also be an effective tool for sleep apnea management in Rockville, Maryland. Our team of doctors have known of many patients with sleep apnea who also suffered from a spinal misalignment. Some misalignments can put pressure directly on the body’s breathing system; thereby, hindering their breathing – especially in certain sleeping positions. If you have sleep apnea, or snore on a frequent basis, chiropractic care may be right for you.

Sleep Apnea FAQ

I struggle to get a good night’s rest. Could I have sleep apnea?

There are a number of reasons for which you might have difficulty sleeping. Sleep apnea is one of them, but not necessarily your issue. When a person has sleep apnea, their breathing will become impeded and they will snore extremely loud. This results in an individual waking up because they can’t breathe. Events like these can happen throughout the night; thus, causing them to feel tired during the day. Usually, a partner is the first person to notice the symptoms. 

I snore loudly. Could I Have Sleep Apnea?

Loud snoring is certainly a sign of sleep apnea, but not all snorers have the condition. About 15 percent of snorers have sleep apnea. Snoring is caused by soft tissues blocking all or some of the airway. If you have been told you snore loudly, or you stop breathing while you sleep, it may be a good idea to talk with a doctor about sleep apnea management in Rockville, MD. 

Can a Chiropractor Help With Sleep Apnea?

It is possible for a chiropractor to assist patients with loud snoring and sleep apnea. A chiropractic adjustment, as well as breathing exercises, massage therapy, and dietary recommendations, can help with sleep apnea. Massage, as well as other complimentary therapies, can often ease the symptoms. 

A chiropractic adjustment will realign the spine; thereby, keep the vertebrae in alignment. This can improve your breathing patterns, and ensure sufficient oxygen is provided to your body. 

How Long Will it Take for My Symptoms to Get Better?

The exact treatment for sleep apnea varies. If you have a CPAP device, we advise you to continue to use it until a doctor tells you otherwise. Chiropractic care for sleep apnea, snoring, or other disorders, can take several sessions before you notice a difference in your sleeping patterns and energy levels. 

Managing Sleep Apnea in Rockville, Maryland

The treatment and management of your symptoms will depend on your overall health, age, and the severity of the condition. In general, medicines are not prescribed for sleep apnea. Rather, Rockville, MD sleep apnea management may include:

  • Oxygen
  • Behavioral therapy 
  • Cease use of alcohol and tobacco
  • Lose weight if overweight
  • Use pillows to sleep in a side position
  • Physical therapy
  • Mechanical therapy
  • Orofacial therapy
  • Surgery 
  • Nerve stimulation
  • Chiropractic manipulation
  • Acupuncture
  • Massage

Key Points to Take Away

  • Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder
  • Sleep apnea might be genetic
  • There are many different forms of treatment for sleep apnea
  • A majority of treatments do not involve pain

Take the Next Steps

If you believe you suffer from sleep apnea, it may be a good idea to reach out to your primary care physician or the Pain Arthritis Relief Center. You will undergo a comprehensive exam, and most likely further diagnostic testing. If you do have sleep apnea, a treatment plan will be designed to address your symptoms. The goal will be to improve your breathing, and therefore your sleep. If you are ready to learn more about sleep apnea management in Rockville, Maryland, please schedule your first appointment with the Pain Arthritis Relief Center today.