Sleep Apnoea Treatment Spearwood
Explore comfortable alternatives to CPAP in Spearwood. Personalised sleep apnoea treatments for better rest and improved well-being.
Most Australians enjoy a restful sleep after a long day. Unfortunately, some Australians suffer from sleep apnoea, and do not sleep as well.
Understanding Sleep Apnoea
Sleep apnoea is a condition where breathing pauses or becomes shallow during sleep, often caused by a blocked airway (obstructive sleep apnoea) or disrupted brain signals (central sleep apnoea). These interruptions can lead to poor sleep, daytime fatigue, and serious health issues.
Common symptoms of sleep apnoea
Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of obstructive and central sleep apnoea:
- Loud snoring
- Pauses in breathing while asleep
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Daytime sleepiness and poor concentration
- Irritability or mood changes
Risk factors:
Anyone can develop sleep apnoea, but risks increase with factors like excess weight, a naturally narrow airway, high blood pressure, nasal congestion, smoking, diabetes, male gender, or a large neck circumference.
Available treatment options
Many patients with sleep apnoea will require more treatment beyond these simple steps.
- Oral appliances: Custom-made devices (mandibular advancement splints) keep the airway open during sleeps.
- CPAP therapy: Delivers constant air pressure to prevent airway collapse.
- Surgery: In rare cases, removes excess tissue blocking the airway.
OSA can also impact your health when left untreated. This health condition can lower the flow of oxygen to your organs and cause uneven heart rhythms. If you suffer from these symptoms, speak with your General Medical Practitioner.
Why treatment matters
Treating sleep apnoea improves sleep quality, boosts energy, and supports overall health by reducing risks such as hypertension, heart problems, depression, and obesity. Non-invasive options like oral appliances offer effective relief without the need for medication or surgery.
What to expect with sleep apnoea treatment
Your journey begins with a consultation with Dr Lucy. If you haven’t had a sleep study, she will refer you to a specialist to assess the severity of your condition and recommend treatment options, such as CPAP or a mandibular splint.
If you choose a splint, Dr Lucy will take impressions of your bite and create a custom device using 3D printing. This retainer-like appliance is designed to keep your airway open and reduce snoring. Your splint will be ready in 2–3 weeks and adjusted for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Follow-up visits are scheduled at five weeks, six months, and annually to ensure the device continues to fit and perform well.
Frequently asked questions
Obstructive sleep apnoea can be cured through surgical intervention or by losing weight - or both - depending on your specific circumstances (not all those who suffer are overweight, for example).
In the meantime, it can be treated with devices such as a sleep mouthguard that can help to keep the airways open so you can enjoy a more restful sleep. This device tends to work best for those with mild to moderate cases.
Yes, depending on the person’s level of cover.
Although there are many different devices on the market, 3D printed nylon is very durable and much stronger than splints made out of acrylic. The use of nylon also makes the device more comfortable.
This therapy is suitable for adults 18 and older.
Sleep better, live better
Enjoy restful nights, better focus, and improved wellbeing – and let your partner sleep peacefully too. Contact us today to book your consultation with Dr Lucy.
