FAQ

Frequently Asked Sleep Apnea Questions

What is a sleep study?

During a sleep study, special diagnostic tools will collect information about your vital signs and the amount of oxygen in your blood while you sleep. Knowing this information is vital for making an accurate diagnosis. Sleep apnea can’t be accurately diagnosed without the information that can be collected during a sleep study.

Do I have to visit a sleep center to have my sleep study completed?

The simple answer to this question is: no. While many patients still visit sleep centers to have their studies completed, there is also a convenient at-home option you can consider. In both cases, Dr. Barotz will have all the information he needs to make a diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan for you.

Do you offer treatment with CPAP?

Yes, we do. Over the years, many patients have been able to sleep better at night thanks to treatment with CPAP.

How does CPAP work?

CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. For those undergoing treatment with it, a special machine will pump a steady stream of air through a mask worn during sleep. This steady stream of air will keep the patient’s windpipe open so air can reach the lungs

Does treatment with CPAP come with side effects?

While not every patient will experience side effects with CPAP, some will. CPAP machines can be noisy, making sleep difficult. Other common side effects include claustrophobia, nasal congestion, runny nose, and morning headaches. If you’re CPAP intolerant and you’d like to explore other treatment options, don’t hesitate to contact Mile High Sleep Center in Denver for help.

Do you offer CPAP alternatives?

Yes, we do. Dr. Barotz offers oral appliance therapy—including oral appliance therapy with SomnoMed—and surgery. After a thorough consultation, our team will recommend a treatment plan built around your specific needs and your medical history.

What is oral appliance therapy?

Oral appliance therapy is one of the most popular modern solutions for sleep apnea. Because OSA is caused by obstruction from the tongue or lower jaw, oral appliance therapy uses a custom-made orthodontic mouthpiece to keep air’s path to the lungs clear of any obstruction.

How long will my appliance last?

When cared for properly, you can expect your appliance to last for years to come.

Can you help me treat snoring?

Yes, we can. Because OSA and snoring are so closely linked, snoring can often be treated with oral appliance therapy.

Do I need surgery?

If you’re CPAP intolerant and oral appliance therapy hasn’t provided satisfying results, Dr. Barotz would be happy to work with you on a more advanced treatment plan. With the surgical care we can provide, we can help you enjoy a better night’s rest without the aid of CPAP or an oral appliance.

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