The effectiveness of NightLase laser therapy depends on the cause of your sleep apnea. The cause of sleep apnea can be varied but usually falls into one of three categories:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)— sleep apnea symptoms occur due to an obstruction of the throat due to the tongue or throat muscles becoming too relaxed during sleep. This is the most common form of sleep apnea and NightLase laser therapy works great for this form because it actively works to tighten the muscles that cause the obstruction.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)—symptoms occur due to the brain not sending the correct signals to the muscles that control breathing. If you suffer from this type of sleep apnea, a physician will create a treatment plan which may include using a CPAP machine. They may also recommend devices used to stimulate the diaphragm nerves that allow you to breathe. Sleep apnea treatments like NightLase laser therapy and oral appliances won’t be effective for this type.
Mixed (or Complex) Sleep Apnea (MSA)— symptoms can be a combination of obstruction and neurological in this form. If you’re resistant to typical treatments, a combination of OSA and CSA treatments may work best. Depending on your specific condition NightLase laser therapy may or may not be effective.