Snoring isn’t just a nighttime annoyance — it can be a warning sign of sleep apnea, a serious condition that affects breathing and sleep quality. At Nevada Sinus Relief, board-certified ENT specialist Dr. Ashley Sikand provides expert diagnosis and treatment for patients in Las Vegas experiencing snoring, sleep apnea, or other airway issues. With decades of experience and advanced in-office technology, Dr. Sikand delivers comprehensive care to help patients breathe easier and sleep better.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, often resulting in poor oxygen levels and disrupted sleep. Left untreated, it can contribute to significant health issues and reduce overall quality of life.
Types of Sleep Apnea
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Caused by physical blockages in the airway, such as relaxed throat muscles, a deviated septum, or nasal polyps. OSA is the most common form of sleep apnea.
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to breathing muscles. This type is less common and is often associated with neurological or cardiac conditions.
- Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Also called treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this is a combination of OSA and CSA and can develop in patients using CPAP therapy.
Symptoms and Risks
Common signs of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring, choking, or gasping during sleep
- Daytime fatigue and non-restorative sleep
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
- Irritability or mood changes
Untreated sleep apnea raises the risk of serious health complications, including:
- Cardiovascular issues: High blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke
- Mental health challenges: Depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline
- Relationship strain: Snoring and restless sleep can disrupt partners’ rest, affecting intimacy and overall wellbeing
Diagnosis & Testing
Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. At Nevada Sinus Relief, Dr. Sikand begins with a full upper airway evaluation using advanced tools such as:
- Nasal endoscopy: Allows direct visualization of nasal passages for identifying obstructions like swollen turbinates or polyps
- In-office CT scans: RadSite-accredited imaging for precise assessment of sinus and nasal anatomy
- Sleep studies: Either home sleep apnea testing or in-lab polysomnography, depending on the patient’s needs
Home Sleep Tests vs. In-Lab Sleep Studies
Home sleep tests offer convenience and are often sufficient for diagnosing moderate sleep apnea. In-lab studies provide more comprehensive monitoring and are recommended for complex cases or when central sleep apnea is suspected.
Sleep study results include the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), which measures the number of apnea events per hour to classify the severity of sleep apnea.
Treatment Options
Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s needs and may involve:
- Medical management: CPAP therapy, oral appliances, or referrals to sleep specialists for non-surgical care
- Surgical solutions for nasal/sinus obstructions:
- Septoplasty for a deviated septum
- Turbinate reduction to open nasal airways
- Polyp removal for patients with nasal polyps
- Lifestyle modifications: Weight management, adjusting sleep position, and avoiding alcohol close to bedtime
By addressing nasal and sinus factors that contribute to airway blockages, Dr. Sikand can help patient breathe more freely at night — even improving CPAP tolerance in those already using it.
See What Our Patients Have To Say!
"I can't say enough about Dr. Sikand and his staff. Breathing through both nostrils had always been very difficult. When I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and had to start using a CPAP machine I met with Dr. Sikand and discovered I had a deviated septum. Dr. Sikand reviewed all my options and made specific recommendations to correct. The recovery took about a week and I just had my 6 week follow up. I wish I had done this 40 years ago. I would highly recommend Dr Sikand and his staff."
Why Choose Nevada Sinus Relief?
Dr. Ashley Sikand is a board-certified otolaryngologist and fellowship-trained rhinologist with decades of experience treating complex nasal and sinus conditions. At Nevada Sinus Relief, patients benefit from:
- Advanced diagnostic tools, including RadSite-accredited in-office CT imaging and high-definition nasal endoscopy
- Minimally invasive treatment options performed with precision and care
- A compassionate team dedicated to improving patients’ sleep, health, and quality of life
Patient Success Story
One patient shared: “When I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and started CPAP, I met with Dr. Sikand and learned I had a deviated septum. After surgery, my breathing improved dramatically, and I wish I had done it years ago. I highly recommend Nevada Sinus Relief.”
Schedule a Consultation Today
If snoring or sleep apnea is affecting your sleep or health, expert care is available. Contact 702.805.1550 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ashley Sikand at Nevada Sinus Relief. Take the first step toward better breathing and restful nights.