What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep — often without the person even knowing it. It is far more common than most people realize, and far more consequential. Left untreated, sleep apnea is associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, daytime fatigue, and a significantly reduced quality of life. Many patients have been told they have it but have struggled to find a treatment that works for them — and that's where an ENT evaluation can make a real difference.
For a meaningful number of sleep apnea patients, the nose and upper airway are part of the problem. Nasal obstruction, a deviated septum, or enlarged turbinates can worsen sleep apnea and make treatments like CPAP harder to tolerate. Identifying and addressing these issues is an important and often overlooked part of comprehensive sleep apnea care.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
- Loud snoring
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Restless or unrefreshing sleep
- Excessive daytime fatigue or difficulty concentrating
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
Diagnosis & Treatment
Dr. Benjamin Rafii evaluates sleep apnea from an airway and anatomic perspective — assessing the nose, throat, and upper airway to identify structural factors that may be contributing to or worsening the condition. Sleep studies are coordinated to confirm the diagnosis, and Dr. Rafii reviews the results with each patient to guide the most appropriate treatment pathway.
For patients with nasal obstruction or other structural airway issues, surgical optimization — such as septoplasty or turbinate reduction — can meaningfully improve breathing and treatment tolerance. For other treatment pathways, including CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy, or Inspire® hypoglossal nerve stimulation, Dr. Rafii works closely with the appropriate specialists in the Los Angeles area to ensure every patient is connected with the right care.
Related Conditions: Nasal Obstruction / Blockage | Deviated Septum | Turbinate Hypertrophy
Related Treatments: Septoplasty | Turbinate Reduction | Sleep Apnea Assessment & Surgical Airway Optimization
Related Services: In-Office Nasal & Sinus Procedures
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or suspect you may have it, Dr. Rafii and his team are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at The Laryngology & Voice Center of Beverly Hills — same- and next-day appointments are available.