Pulmonologists, specialists in lung health, treat sleep apnea using various methods, including:
1. CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy: Prescribing and managing CPAP machines to maintain airway pressure.
2. BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) therapy: Similar to CPAP, but with adjustable pressure settings.
3. Oral Appliances: Referring patients to dentists for custom-made devices that advance the lower jaw or tongue.
4. Oxygen Therapy: Prescribing oxygen supplementation for patients with low oxygen levels.
5. Weight Loss Programs: Encouraging weight loss through diet and exercise to reduce sleep apnea severity.
6. Sleep Positioning Therapy: Recommending sleeping on your side instead of your back.
7. Medications: Prescribing medications to reduce sleepiness or related conditions like high blood pressure.
8. Referral to Sleep Specialists: Collaborating with sleep specialists for further evaluation and treatment.
9. Home Sleep Testing (HST): Conducting home sleep tests to diagnose and monitor sleep apnea.
10. Titration Studies: Conducting in-lab sleep studies to adjust CPAP/BiPAP settings for optimal results.
Pulmonologists often work in conjunction with other healthcare professionals, such as ENT specialists, sleep specialists, and primary care physicians, to provide comprehensive care for sleep apnea patients.
Know how a Pulmonologist Treat Sleep Apnea !