Blog

Does Septoplasty and Turbinate Reduction Surgery Help with Sleep Apnea?

04/26/2024

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep. These breathing interruptions can lead to disrupted sleep patterns and potentially serious health consequences if left untreated. Septoplasty and turbinate reduction surgery are surgical procedures that can be performed to address certain nasal issues that may contribute to sleep apnea. In this blog, we will explore the potential benefits of septoplasty and turbinate reduction surgery in the context of sleep apnea treatment.

The Relationship Between Nasal Obstruction and Sleep Apnea

Nasal obstruction, whether due to a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates, can affect the quality of sleep and exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms. When nasal airflow is obstructed, individuals may experience increased resistance to breathing, leading to snoring, mouth breathing, and interruptions in breathing during sleep – all common symptoms of sleep apnea.

Understanding Septoplasty and Turbinate Reduction Surgery

Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting a deviated septum, which is a displacement of the nasal septum that divides the nostrils. A deviated septum can obstruct airflow through the nasal passages, leading to breathing difficulties and potentially contributing to sleep apnea.

Turbinate Reduction Surgery

Turbinates are structures inside the nasal passages that help humidify and filter the air we breathe. In cases where the turbinates are enlarged or inflamed, they can obstruct nasal airflow, contributing to breathing issues during sleep. Turbinate reduction surgery aims to reduce the size of the turbinates to improve nasal airflow.

How Septoplasty and Turbinate Reduction Surgery Can Help

• Improved Nasal Airflow: By correcting a deviated septum through septoplasty and reducing the size of turbinates through turbinate reduction surgery, airflow through the nasal passages can be improved. This enhanced nasal airflow can reduce breathing resistance and help alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea.
• Enhanced CPAP Therapy: For individuals using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy for sleep apnea, septoplasty and turbinate reduction surgery can complement CPAP treatment by improving the effectiveness of the therapy.

Consultation and Considerations

If you think you may benefit from septoplasty and turbinate reduction surgery for sleep apnea, it is important to talk to an ear, nose, and throat specialist or a doctor who focuses on sleep issues. They will make a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and may do tests to decide on the best treatment for your specific needs.

If you need someone to discuss your sleep disorder or have questions, please reach out. At Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat, our award winning, fellowship trained, and board-certified physicians are ready to help. Schedule an appointment with us or visit our website for information.