Ep196: Exploring Alternatives to CPAP: Personalized Approaches for Sleep Apnea with Dr. Kevin Smith

"If you can get air past the obstruction or the partial obstruction and you can help the lungs inflate so that there's oxygen circulating and they're not holding their breath for those 10 or more seconds, 30 more times a night. It has to help”

In this episode, we talked about the alternative procedures for managing sleep apnea without the traditional CPAP machine. Our guest, Dr. Kevin Smith, brings his expertise in personalized treatment approaches for nasal and throat issues, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing the root causes of sleep disturbances. We'll explore the critical role of nasal health, the benefits of nitric oxide through nasal breathing, and the potential surgical interventions that can enhance sleep quality.

Dr. Kevin Smith was raised in Dallas, Texas where he played quarterback for the famed Dallas Carter Cowboys (featured in the movie “Carter High”) and won numerous academic and community awards. He attended the University of Michigan on a football scholarship where he majored in Biology. Dr. Smith is one of the few facial plastic surgeons who is board certified by both the American Board of Otolaryngology (ENT) and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. For nearly two decades, Dr. Smith has served as an Assistant Clinical Faculty Member in the Department of Otolaryngology at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston. He was appointed to the Texas Medical Board by then Governor George W. Bush and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Key Takeaways:

  • Individualized Treatment Approach: Dr. Kevin Smith emphasizes the importance of personalizing treatment plans for sleep apnea, highlighting that CPAP machines may not be the only or best solution for everyone. Exploring nasal and throat corrections can significantly enhance sleep quality.

  • Role of Nasal Health: Nasal breathing plays a crucial role in health and sleep quality. Proper nasal function ensures optimal nitric oxide absorption, which is vital for circulation and overall wellbeing. Don't overlook underlying nasal issues when tackling sleep apnea.

  • Professional Consultation is Essential: Before pursuing any drastic measures like mouth taping, it's crucial to have a thorough nasal examination by a specialist. This will ensure any obstructions are identified and treated effectively.

Tune in to learn more about alternative treatments for sleep apnea and the importance of addressing the root causes. Let's prioritize our sleep health!

“What I find most often is there are people on CPAP and people with sleep apnea who actually have anatomical problems as the reason for their obstruction.”

WHAT WILL WE LEARN

00:00 Trump's sleep habits suggest potential sleep issues.

06:12 Common issues: deviated septum, large turbinates, adenoids.

08:46 Improper CPAP use disrupts sleep and health.

11:00 Nasal breathing increases nitric oxide, aiding vasodilation.

14:48 Qualified evaluation essential for effective treatment decisions.

18:39 Thin, but struggling with sleep apnea management.

22:59 Devices aid breathing but require proper use.

25:58 CT scan review; procedure setup and clearance.

27:51 Nose care ensures healing and patient gratitude.

32:16 Nasal breathing crucial for sleep, health quality.

35:06 Enjoys patient progress and rewarding CPAP use.

37:54 Treat sleep apnea with personalized treatment options.

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