Treatment of UARS

How to treat UARS

When it comes to treating UARS, all therapies tend to focus on a sole problem: keep the airways from narrowing or collapsing.

For the most part, UARS is able to be treated through the same methods in which obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is treated, however, there are some gotchas to be noted.

The gold-standard for treating UARS without a doubt is a CPAP machine. Another popular option is a mouth piece made by your dentist that keeps your airway open.

There are also unconventional treatments that people have had varying levels of success with. Examples are playing the didgeridoo, changing your sleeping position, losing weight, and diet changes.

CPAP - Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

For treating UARS and other sleep breathing disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, doctors typically prescribe a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to keep your airways from collapsing at night.

A what machine?

A CPAP machine works by delivering a constant stream of air pressure through a hose and facial mask or nosepiece.

These machines must be calibrated by a sleep technician to dial-in the correct pressure. Once set at the optimal pressure, the CPAP machine should keep your airways open wide during times the airways become too narrow or collapse.

CPAP FAQ

How long do I need to use CPAP for?

You need to use the CPAP every night to notice its benefits.

How do I get a CPAP machine?

You must be prescribed a CPAP machine by your doctor.

You'll also need to complete some form of a sleep study confirming a UARS diagnosis, in-lab or at-home, before being prescribed a CPAP.

Once you get your prescription, you can purchase a CPAP through a local durable medical equipment (DME) supplier or a more cost-effective option is purchasing online through a site like CPAP.com. Shopping online is definitely the way to go in my experience as most DMEs overcharge for the same products.

Behavioral and Lifestyle Changes

1. Lose some weight

Not only can losing a few extra pounds help you look and feel your best, it'll also help you sleep better!

2. Change your sleeping position

Did you know that sleep breathing disorders such as UARS and OSA are usually worse when one is laying on their back?

While it may not be a cure all, changing your sleeping position from your back to your side/stomach can possibly alleviate some of your symptoms. When combined with a nasal decongestant such as oxymetazoline, studies have shown slight improvements in UARS symptoms.

3. Learn to playing the didgeridoo

The didgeridoo is an Australian wind instrument that has been around for over 1,500 years.

Believe it or not, learning to play this ancient instrument has been shown to improve UARS symptoms.

Behavioral Changes FAQ

Oral Appliances

For those with mild UARS or unable to tolerate CPAP therapy, an oral appliance custom-made by an orthodontist or dentist is typically the next best option.

The oral appliances are a lot more convenient to use... no need to lug around a bulky CPAP machine when traveling -- just throw the mouthpiece into your backpack and you're good to go!

Types of Oral Appliances

• Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD)
• Tongue retaining device

Surgery

When it comes to UARS, surgery is typically last-in-line as far as treatment options go.

Depending on the pathology of your UARS, your doctor might suggest a specific surgery for your situation

1. Turbinate reduction
2. Septoplasty
3. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
4. Genioglossus bone advancement
5. Maxillo-Mandibular Advancement (double jaw surgery)

Surgery FAQ

Coming soon

Nasal Steroids and Antihistamines

In some cases of UARS that are caused by inflammation due to allergies, one might be able to find relief using nasal steroids or antihistamines.