Sinus Surgery As a Cure for Sleep Apnea

Recently a major study found a connection between sinus disorders and obstructive sleep apnea that was more than anecdotal. It seems that sinus surgery can address breathing interruptions during sleep with surprising effectiveness:

The study found that 15 percent of people with chronically stuffed sinuses also had the sleep disorder obstructive sleep apnea. After surgery to clear the sinuses, people reported better quality of life and improved sleep, regardless of whether or not they had a sleep disorder.

Several theories have been proposed to explain this phenomenon. One that the article cites is that obstructed nasal pathways force more mouth breathing, which then leads to some of the conditions under which sleep apnea arises.

Yet sinus surgery isn’t a panacea; as with with any disorder, it is wise to start more conservative treatment before graduating to surgery:

Do the study findings mean that anyone with a persistent runny or stuffy nose and fatigue should go straight for sinus surgery? No, said Alt. Patients should try medication first before they get into talks with their doctors about surgery, he suggested.

“However, many patients see tremendous benefits in both disease severity and overall quality of life after sinus surgery” that they didn’t get with medicines alone, Alt added.

If you or your partner suffers with obstructive sleep apnea, it’s a good idea to speak with a Los Angeles sinus surgeon about some options for relief. Contact my offices today to learn more.