UARS Treatment in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island
What is upper airway resistance syndrome?
Upper airway resistance syndrome, also known as UARS, occurs when your airways constrict, causing interruptions during sleep. UARS is often confused with obstructive sleep apnea. However, unlike with obstructive sleep apnea, sufferers of UARS wake up or experience what is known as a respiratory effort-related arousal right before they fully stop breathing.
Upper airway resistance syndrome may progress to obstructive sleep apnea, which may lead to serious health-related issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. If you or a loved one suffers from upper airway resistance syndrome, a consultation with a Dental365Sleep specialist can help you discover what treatment options are available to you.
What causes upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS)?
Similar to obstructive sleep apnea, upper airway resistance is likely the result of airways becoming partially or fully blocked during sleep. When airways become blocked during sleep, your body needs to work harder to carry air to your lungs, causing sufferers of UARS to experience labored breathing during sleep. As you work harder to breathe, your brain will awaken or arouse to help restore breathing and airflow to your lungs.
What are the symptoms of UARS?
Symptoms of upper airway resistance syndrome are similar to symptoms experienced with OSA and may include:
- Suddenly waking from sleep
- Feeling tired and fatigued during the day
- Suffering from headaches
- Loss of or inability to sleep
- Hands and feet are cold
- Feeling depressed
- Difficulties concentrating
- Gastrointestinal issues
Because UARS and OSA share similar symptoms, your doctor will likely conduct a sleep study to help accurately diagnose upper airway resistance syndrome.
How is UARS diagnosed?
Since upper airway resistance is a sleep disorder, it is likely that your doctor will recommend nocturnal esophageal manometry, an at-home test that can measure pressure changes within your thorax while you are sleeping.
Can upper airway resistance syndrome lead to complications if left untreated?
Left untreated, upper airway resistance syndrome can progress to obstructive sleep apnea, a serious sleep condition that can lead to serious health-related issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Upper airway resistance may also lead to insomnia, weight gain, and daytime fatigue.
How is upper airway resistance syndrome treated?
Similar to symptoms and causes, UARS also shares some of the same treatment options as OSA. Treatment options for upper airway resistance syndrome may include:
- Adopting good sleeping habits
- Maintaining a healthy diet and weight
- Oral appliance therapy
- CPAP therapy
If you or a loved one is suffering from upper airway resistance syndrome, a consultation with a dental sleep specialist can help you be on your way towards achieving a better night’s rest. The dental sleep specialists at Dental365Sleep offer modern treatment solutions with high-quality care and appointment availability seven days a week for maximum convenience. Call 844.365.DENTAL or click the appointment request button to schedule an appointment or to learn more about treatment options for upper airway resistance syndrome.
