Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is the most common and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, but it’s not the only option. For some people, CPAP may be difficult to tolerate, or they may be looking for other solutions. This guide explores some of the alternative treatments available for sleep apnea.
Oral Appliance Therapy
For people with mild to moderate sleep apnea, an oral appliance can be an effective alternative to CPAP. These devices, which look similar to a sports mouthguard, are worn in your mouth while you sleep. They work by repositioning your jaw or tongue to keep your airway open. Oral appliances are custom-fitted by a dentist and are a good option for people who travel frequently or find CPAP to be too cumbersome.
Positional Therapy
As mentioned in our lifestyle changes post, some people have sleep apnea primarily when they sleep on their back. For these individuals, positional therapy can be a simple and effective solution. This can involve using special pillows or wearable devices that vibrate when you roll onto your back, training you to sleep on your side.
Surgical Options
In some cases, surgery may be an option to treat sleep apnea. The goal of surgery is to enlarge the airway in your nose or throat. There are several different types of surgical procedures, and the best option for you will depend on the specific cause of your sleep apnea. Surgery is typically considered only after other treatments have failed.
Inspire Therapy
Inspire is an implantable device that works inside your body to treat sleep apnea. It’s a small device that is implanted under the skin in your upper chest. It works by stimulating the hypoglossal nerve, which controls the movement of your tongue, to keep your airway open while you sleep. Inspire is an option for people with moderate to severe sleep apnea who are unable to use or get consistent benefit from CPAP.
