Ep183: Sleep Interrupted: Exploring Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome with Dr. Steven Y. Park

OVERVIEW

“Addressing nasal issues conservatively and medically first, and considering nasal surgery as a last resort, is crucial for managing sleep apnea effectively.”

In this episode, Dr. Yishan is joined by Dr. Steven Y. Park, he is an author and surgeon who helps people who are always sick or tired to  once again reclaim their health and energy. For the past 13 years in private practice and 7 years in academic medicine, he has helped thousands of men and women breathe better, sleep better, and live more fulfilling lives. His passion is to identify and empower people to overcome sleep-related breathing problems, which most people don’t realize is the real reason for many of their common medical ailments.

Dr. Steven Y. Park talks about how nasal issues, such as narrow nasal cavity, deviated septum, and inflammation due to allergies, can impact sleep apnea and upper airway resistance syndrome. A range of topics are covered, including the effects of pregnancy, weight gain, and the importance of taking responsibility for our own health choices. Dr. Yishan and Steve also discussed the diverse range of surgical and non-surgical treatments for sleep breathing disorders, the impact of muscle use on facial structure, and the interconnectedness of sleep, exercise, and diet in overall health.

We hope you find this episode informative and insightful. Remember, taking proactive steps to improve your sleep health can have a significant impact on your overall well-being.

Key points covered in this episode include the following:

- Nasal issues can significantly impact sleep apnea: Conditions such as narrow nasal cavity, deviated septum, and inflammation due to allergies can exacerbate sleep apnea, leading to symptoms like nasal congestion and mouth breathing at night. Addressing nasal issues conservatively and medically first, and considering nasal surgery as a last resort, is crucial for managing sleep apnea effectively.

- Greater awareness of sleep apnea's impact during pregnancy: Untreated sleep apnea during pregnancy can lead to complications such as hypertension, preeclampsia, premature delivery, and postpartum depression. The risks and complications highlight the need for comprehensive management strategies tailored to the specific needs of pregnant women with sleep apnea.

- Holistic approach to sleep health: Interconnectedness of sleep, exercise, and diet in overall health and emphasized the importance of individuals taking personal responsibility for their healthcare and being proactive in managing their

We invite you to listen to this insightful episode and engage with the valuable information shared by Dr. Park. The podcast can be accessed on our website or your preferred podcast platform.

"Persistence and action are keys to success in improving sleep health.” - Dr. Steven Y. Park

WHAT WILL WE LEARN

00:00 Comprehensive sleep surgery options for breathing problems.

04:31 Advancements in sleep surgery and dental awareness.

07:02 Technology and cutting tools changed eating habits.

10:13 Sleep apnea diagnosed with 5+ apneas per hour.

15:16 Sleep apnea linked to severe pregnancy complications.

17:38 Pregnancy and menopause affect hormone levels.

20:09 Insurance often doesn't cover upper airway issues.

25:31 Benefits of vitamin D for sleep and allergies. Treat nose conservatively, medically, then surgically.

28:13 Encourage mouth tipping cautiously, ensuring nasal breathing.

31:18 Weight loss is important for treating sleep apnea.

34:00 Physician studies people with PTSD and insomnia.

38:25 Pandemic raised health awareness, self-responsibility essential.

42:08 New sleep apnea treatment with cautious optimism.

44:28 Persistence and action lead to health success.

Are you so sleepy that you cannot focus? Are you tired of getting through the day drinking coffee? Are you worried how your poor sleep may impact your health? Checkout Dr. Yishan Xu’s Insomnia Treatment Course! 

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Yishan Xu, PhD, DBSMsleep, sleep disorder, sleep better, sleep apneaComment