Sleep Apnea

Top view of a woman sleeping in bed. She looks peaceful and fast asleep.

Sleep apnea is more than loud snoring, it’s a common and potentially serious condition that can disrupt your rest, impact your daily energy, and affect your long-term health. Our specialists evaluate the full range of sleep-related breathing disorders and offer solutions tailored to your needs. Explore the resources below to learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. If you’re concerned about your sleep or a loved one’s, we’re here to help you breathe easier and rest better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study (polysomnography). This test monitors breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep patterns overnight to determine if pauses in breathing or airway obstruction are occurring. In some cases, a home sleep study may be appropriate. At Joplin ENT, we coordinate testing and interpret results to guide the best treatment plan.

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s needs. Options include:

  • Lifestyle changes such as weight management, positional therapy, and avoiding alcohol or sedatives before bed.
  • CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): A device that delivers gentle air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep.
  • Oral appliances: Custom devices that reposition the jaw or tongue to improve airflow.
  • Surgical options: Procedures to remove or reduce airway obstruction, such as tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, or advanced airway surgery.
  • ENT‑directed care: At Joplin ENT, we evaluate airway anatomy and provide surgical and non‑surgical solutions tailored to each patient.

Yes. Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are the most common cause of sleep apnea in children. Symptoms may include snoring, restless sleep, bedwetting, daytime irritability, or learning difficulties. Early evaluation and treatment are important to prevent long‑term complications.

Inspire® is an implantable device that treats obstructive sleep apnea by gently stimulating the airway muscles during sleep. It helps keep the airway open without the need for a mask or hose. Patients turn the device on and off with a small remote, making it simple and convenient. Inspire is an option for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

Dr. Walker of Joplin ENT performing a mouth/throat examination

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