Deep into Sleep Ep196: Exploring Alternatives to CPAP: Personalized Approaches for Sleep Apnea with Dr. Kevin Smith
16 snips
Oct 4, 2024 
In this discussion, Dr. Kevin Smith, a board-certified surgeon specializing in nasal and throat procedures, explores innovative alternatives to CPAP for sleep apnea treatment. He highlights the importance of addressing anatomical issues like deviated septum and enlarged tonsils, emphasizing personalized surgical options. The conversation delves into the benefits of nasal breathing and nitric oxide for improving sleep quality. Dr. Smith shares compelling patient outcomes, stressing the need for individualized assessments to enhance sleep and overall health.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Anatomy Often Drives Sleep Apnea
- Many sleep breathing problems stem from anatomical obstruction in the nose or throat rather than only functional issues.
- Kevin Smith emphasizes evaluating septum, turbinates, adenoids, uvula, soft palate, and tonsils to find root causes.
Surgical Options Can Restore Breathing
- Treat enlarged uvula, long soft palate, or large tonsils surgically when they cause obstruction.
- Procedures like uvula clipping, turbinate reduction, and tonsil reduction/removal often restore breathing and sleep.
Scan And Fix Before CPAP
- Before starting CPAP or other devices, get a sinus CT and ENT evaluation to correct nasal or throat obstructions.
- Fixing anatomy can reduce required CPAP pressure or eliminate the need for CPAP entirely.
