Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It's a potentially serious condition that can lead to heart problems, high blood pressure, stroke, and other health complications. There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and complex sleep apnea syndrome. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it's important to consult your doctor.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) happens when the muscles at the back of your throat relax too much to allow normal breathing. These muscles support the soft palate, uvula, tonsils, and the tongue. When they relax, the airway narrows or closes as you breathe in, lowering the oxygen level in your blood. Your brain senses this inability to breathe and briefly rouses you from sleep so that you can reopen your airway. This awakening is usually so brief that you don’t remember it. You might snort, choke, or gasp. This pattern can repeat 30 times or more each hour, all night long, impairing your ability to reach the deep, restful phases of sleep.

Common Causes

Several factors can increase the risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea:

  • Obesity: Excess weight increases the pressure on your airway.

  • Neck circumference: People with thicker necks might have narrower airways.

  • Gender: Men are twice as likely to have sleep apnea as women.

  • Age: Sleep apnea occurs more often in older adults.

  • Family history: Having family members with sleep apnea might increase your risk.

  • Use of alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers: These substances relax the muscles in your throat.

  • Smoking: Smokers are three times more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea.

  • Nasal congestion: If you have difficulty breathing through your nose, you’re more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea.

Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

  • Loud snoring

  • Gasping for air during sleep

  • Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)

  • Dry mouth upon awakening

  • Morning headaches

  • Irritability

  • Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)

  • Difficulty paying attention while awake

  • Gastrointestinal issues

  • Bed-wetting, sleep walking, and night terrors in children

  • Clenching and grinding of teeth (bruxism)

  • Frequent urination at night (nocturia)

How Myofunctional Therapy Can Help

Myofunctional therapy strengthens the muscles of the face, throat, and tongue, promoting proper tongue posture and improving airway function. This can lead to better craniofacial development in children and teens, reducing the risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Research shows it can lower the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) by up to 50%, enhancing sleep quality and reducing symptoms, especially in mild to moderate cases.

Studies have shown that myofunctional therapy can reduce the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI)—the measure of how often breathing stops or becomes shallow during sleep—by up to 50% in those with obstructive sleep apnea. While individuals with severe sleep apnea may still require CPAP therapy even after this reduction, many with mild to moderate cases experience significant improvements in sleep quality and a decrease in apnea symptoms.

Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep

If you’re dealing with sleep apnea, MyoMotion Therapy can offer a tailored solution. Our specialized myofunctional therapy programs are designed to address the root causes of sleep apnea and help you breathe more effectively throughout the night. Experience the benefits of personalized therapy that targets your specific needs. Schedule a free consultation with us today to learn how we can help improve your sleep quality and overall health.