Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that disrupts your rest and overall health. While CPAP machines are commonly associated with sleep apnea treatment, they aren’t the only solution available. At Dr. Nancy Hartrick’s office, we offer alternative treatments to help you manage sleep apnea in a way that suits your lifestyle and comfort.
Expert Care for Sleep Apnea at Dr. Nancy Hartrick’s Office
With over a decade of experience in treating sleep disorders, Dr. Nancy Hartrick brings her expertise and knowledge to sleep apnea care. A recognized professional by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), Dr. Hartrick takes a personalized and comprehensive approach to treating sleep apnea. We don’t just treat symptoms; we delve into the root causes of the condition to offer tailored treatment options.
Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art dental sleep technology, enabling us to provide non-invasive, effective treatments. Our team is dedicated to making sure that each patient receives the best possible care and support throughout their treatment journey.
At-Home Positional Therapy Guidance
For patients with positional sleep apnea, which worsens in specific sleeping positions, Dr. Hartrick provides guidance on managing symptoms through positional therapy.
While we don’t offer positional therapy devices, we can provide valuable advice on implementing this method effectively at home:
- Understanding Positional Therapy: We educate patients on techniques to avoid sleeping on their backs, a position that can aggravate symptoms.
- Personalized Tips: We recommend ways to encourage side-sleeping, such as using supportive pillows or sleepwear.
- Success Framework: Our team shares proven strategies that have helped many patients improve their sleep quality through positional therapy.
Supporting Weight Management
Weight plays a crucial role in the severity of sleep apnea. While Dr. Hartrick doesn’t offer a formal weight management program, we do provide advice on managing your weight effectively at home.
Here’s how we help:
- Initial Assessment: We guide you in understanding how your weight may contribute to your sleep apnea.
- Goal Setting: We assist you in setting practical weight loss goals to help alleviate sleep apnea symptoms.
By following our guidance and adopting healthy lifestyle changes, many patients have successfully improved their sleep apnea symptoms and overall health.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Better Sleep
Managing sleep apnea often requires making changes beyond just dental treatments. At Dr. Nancy Hartrick’s office, we offer guidance on simple lifestyle adjustments that can improve your symptoms:
- Smoking: Smoking can worsen sleep apnea by causing inflammation and fluid retention in the airway. We connect patients with local resources to help them quit smoking.
- Alcohol: Alcohol relaxes the throat muscles and can exacerbate sleep apnea. We provide tips for moderating alcohol consumption, particularly before bed.
- Allergen Management: To reduce symptoms, we recommend improving air quality in your bedroom by using air purifiers and hypoallergenic bedding.
- Sleep Routine: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule can improve overall sleep quality. We offer strategies to help patients stick to a regular bedtime routine.
Custom-Fitted Dental Appliances for Sleep Apnea
Dr. Hartrick specializes in providing custom-fitted dental appliances that serve as an effective alternative to CPAP machines.
These appliances help keep the airway open during sleep, offering a comfortable and personalized solution for sleep apnea:
- Tailored Fit: Each appliance is custom-fitted to ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness.
- Personalized Adjustments: The appliance is adjusted to meet the specific needs of your diagnosis, optimizing relief from sleep apnea symptoms.
Home Care for Your Dental Appliance:
To ensure your dental appliance continues to function well, we provide clear instructions on how to clean it daily, store it properly, and maintain it to maximize its lifespan.
- Routine Checks: We educate you on how to inspect your appliance for wear and tear and when to seek professional adjustments.
- Scheduled Follow-Ups: Regular visits are scheduled to ensure your appliance remains comfortable and effective.
With custom-fitted dental appliances, our patients find a more comfortable, less intrusive option for managing sleep apnea.
Streamlined At-Home Sleep Apnea Monitoring
At Dr. Nancy Hartrick’s office, we offer an advanced at-home sleep monitoring service to enhance the treatment process. Using BRAEBON™ biosensors, this convenient service allows you to record vital sleep data right from your bed.
Once we assess your sleep data, we can recommend treatments such as a custom-fitted dental appliance to improve your nighttime breathing. This quick turnaround allows us to begin your treatment plan in just a few days.
Over-the-Counter Sleep Apnea Devices
While Dr. Hartrick specializes in custom solutions, we also inform our patients about over-the-counter (OTC) devices. OTC options such as anti-snore pillows and nasal strips may offer temporary relief for mild sleep apnea, but they are not typically effective for moderate or severe cases. Always consult with Dr. Hartrick before relying on OTC devices as your primary treatment.
Your Path to Better Sleep Starts Here
Adhering to a personalized treatment plan is key to overcoming sleep apnea. At Dr. Nancy Hartrick’s office, we are committed to guiding you toward better sleep and improved overall well-being.
Take the first step toward better sleep today. Call (248) 712-1149 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll find the right solution to help you achieve restful nights and healthier days.