What Is Sleep Apnea? Symptoms, Risks & CPAP Alternatives
- Madeleine Herman
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
A Guide from SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston
By: Dr. Madeleine Herman, MD
Sleep is essential for your health, but for millions of people, breathing problems during sleep prevent truly restful nights. One of the most common and serious causes is sleep apnea — a condition that affects both children and adults. At SCENT Houston, we help patients diagnose sleep apnea and explore treatment options, including alternatives to CPAP for those who can’t tolerate the machine.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition where you repeatedly stop breathing during sleep. These pauses can last 10 seconds or longer and can occur dozens to hundreds of times per night.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – Most common
Caused by the airway collapsing or becoming blocked while you sleep.This may be due to:
Enlarged tonsils
Nasal obstruction or deviated septum
Large tongue or soft palate
Obesity
Narrow throat structure
Collapse of the throat or tongue
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea doesn’t just disrupt sleep — it affects your overall health.
Nighttime Symptoms:
Loud snoring
Pauses in breathing
Gasping or choking during sleep
Restless sleep or frequent awakenings
Daytime Symptoms:
Morning headaches
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability or mood changes
Why Sleep Apnea Matters
Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of:
High blood pressure
Stroke
Heart disease
Type 2 diabetes
Depression
Memory problems
Car accidents due to fatigue
Good sleep isn’t a luxury — it’s a vital part of long-term health.
CPAP Is Effective… But Not for Everyone
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is often the first-line treatment. It uses air pressure to keep your airway open.
While life-changing for some, many patients struggle with:
Mask discomfort
Dryness or irritation
Claustrophobia
Noise
Trouble sleeping with the device
The good news? There are several CPAP alternatives — many offered right here at SCENT Houston.
CPAP Alternatives Offered by SCENT Houston
Here are the most effective, evidence-based options for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP.
1. Inspire Therapy (Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation)
A small, implantable device that treats OSA by gently stimulating the tongue muscles to keep the airway open.
Benefits:
Works from inside the body
No mask, no hose
Controlled by a simple remote
Great for patients with CPAP intolerance
2. Nasal Surgery
If nasal obstruction contributes to apnea or snoring, surgery may dramatically improve airflow.
Procedures include:
Septoplasty (straightens a deviated septum)
Turbinate reduction
Nasal valve repair
Better nasal breathing improves both sleep quality and CPAP tolerance for those who still need it.
3. Tonsillectomy (Especially in Kids)
Large tonsils are a leading cause of sleep apnea in children and some adults.Removing enlarged tonsils can significantly improve or even cure OSA.
4. Weight Management Support
For some patients, weight loss can reduce airway collapse during sleep.ENT-guided evaluation helps you know if this will be effective in your case.
5. Oral Appliance Therapy
Custom-made dental devices reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open.
Ideal for:
Mild to moderate sleep apnea
Patients who cannot tolerate CPAP
Patients with jaw or tongue-related airway collapse
6. Positional Therapy
Some people only experience apnea while sleeping on their back. Changing sleep position can improve symptoms.
7. Allergy & Sinus Treatment
Untreated allergies or chronic sinusitis can worsen snoring and apnea.Treating inflammation improves nighttime airflow.
The SCENT Houston Approach
At SCENT Houston, we take a comprehensive, ENT-led approach to diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. We evaluate every part of your airway — nose, throat, sinuses, and tonsils — to find the best treatment plan for you.
Whether you need advanced testing, allergy treatment, nasal surgery, or CPAP alternatives like Inspire Therapy, we’re here to help you breathe better and sleep better.
🌙 Ready to Finally Get Restful Sleep?
If you snore loudly, feel tired every day, or struggle with CPAP, schedule a visit with our ENT specialists.
SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston
Serving Memorial • Tanglewood • Greater Houston
📞 Call today for an airway & sleep evaluation.