Is it Sleep Apnea or Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS)?

As awareness grows about the importance of quality sleep for overall health, you may be familiar with sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep. However, you may not have heard about Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS), a related but distinct condition that can also impact sleep quality and lead to persistent fatigue.

In this newsletter, we’ll explore the key differences between UARS and sleep apnea, helping you understand their unique characteristics, symptoms, and treatments. By clarifying these conditions, we aim to support better sleep health and provide insights that can help you or someone you know seek the most appropriate care.

Understanding the distinctions between Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome and sleep apnea is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. While sleep apnea poses more significant health risks, UARS can still disrupt daily life and well-being. Both conditions highlight the critical need for effective airway management and quality sleep. If you or a loved one experiences symptoms like chronic fatigue, frequent nighttime awakenings, or snoring, it may be time to consult a healthcare provider. Addressing these issues can pave the way to better health, improved energy, and more restful sleep.

How Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Can Help with UARS and Sleep Apnea

Orofacial myologists play a valuable role in treating both Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS) and sleep apnea by addressing structural and functional issues in the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat. We use exercises and therapeutic techniques to improve muscle tone and function in the orofacial area, which can help keep the airway open during sleep. Here’s how an orofacial myologist can help:

1. Strengthening Airway Muscles: Through targeted exercises, orofacial myologists work to strengthen the tongue, soft palate, and throat muscles, which can prevent airway collapse. This is especially beneficial for individuals with UARS or mild obstructive sleep apnea, where weak or uncoordinated muscles may contribute to airway resistance.

2. Correcting Oral Rest Posture: Orofacial myologists help patients establish a healthy oral rest posture, where the lips are closed, and the tongue rests against the palate. This positioning naturally supports an open airway and can reduce airway resistance, benefiting both UARS and sleep apnea patients.

3. Improving Nasal Breathing: Many individuals with UARS and sleep apnea have a habit of mouth breathing, which can worsen airway resistance and disrupt sleep. Orofacial myologists train patients to breathe through their nose, which not only improves oxygen intake but also helps maintain airway stability and reduce snoring.

4. Supporting Long Term Changes: The exercises and habits fostered through orofacial myology therapy can have lasting effects, reducing symptoms and the need for more invasive treatments. For those using CPAP or other devices, orofacial myology can enhance the effectiveness of these therapies, promoting better adherence and outcomes.

By focusing on these foundational muscle and breathing techniques, orofacial myologists offer a non-invasive, holistic approach to managing UARS and sleep apnea, aiming to improve quality of sleep, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall health.

At Midwest Myofunctional, our experienced team is here to help you find relief through personalized orofacial myofunctional therapy. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.