Sleep Apnea: Which Specialist to Consult?
Sleep Apnea: Which Doctor Should You See for Diagnosis and Treatment?
Who to Consult for Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that requires medical attention. But which specialist should you see? Several healthcare professionals can diagnose and treat sleep apnea, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
1. Your General Practitioner: The First Step
Your first point of contact should be your general practitioner (GP). They will:
- Assess your symptoms (snoring, fatigue, breathing pauses)
- Prescribe a sleep study if needed
- Refer you to a specialist if necessary
2. A Sleep Specialist or Pulmonologist
A sleep specialist or pulmonologist (lung specialist) is one of the main doctors for diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. They can:
- Perform a polysomnography (sleep study)
- Analyze breathing patterns and oxygen levels
- Prescribe treatment like CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy
3. An ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) Specialist
An ENT doctor (Otolaryngologist) examines the airways to detect possible obstructions like:
- Enlarged tonsils
- Deviated nasal septum
- Nasal congestion or polyps
If structural issues are found, they may suggest surgery to improve airflow.
4. A Dentist Specialized in Sleep Disorders
A sleep dentist can provide a mandibular advancement device (MAD), a custom-made oral appliance that helps keep the airway open by adjusting jaw position. We talk about Bruxism or Causes du bruxisme.
5. A Neurologist (For Central Sleep Apnea Cases)
If your sleep apnea is due to neurological issues (Central Sleep Apnea), a neurologist may be involved in your treatment.
Which Specialist Should You See First?
If you suspect sleep apnea, follow these steps:
- Consult your GP for an initial evaluation.
- Undergo a sleep study with a pulmonologist or sleep specialist.
- Visit an ENT doctor if nasal or throat obstructions are suspected.
- Consider a sleep dentist for oral appliance therapy.
Conclusion
Sleep apnea requires proper medical attention to avoid serious health risks. Start with your general practitioner, who will guide you toward the right specialist for diagnosis and treatment. Don’t ignore the symptoms—seeking help can improve your sleep and overall well-being.
