Those who qualify for Inspire will require a minor outpatient procedure. The physician implants the small nerve stimulator device and battery pack under the skin in the chest. One electronic lead, or wire, connects the device to the nerve that stimulates the tongue.
Your doctor can also discuss alternatives to CPAP if you are unable to use CPAP therapy, if it has not been effective for you, or if you simply want to explore your other options.
Before considering an alternative to CPAP therapy, it’s important to discuss any concerns or challenges about this treatment with your doctor.
Choice of machine and level of air pressure will be determined by a sleep specialist after you have undergone an overnight study, usually at a sleep centre. The levels are then adjusted or ‘titrated’ after you have had an opportunity to get used to the machine at home.
Immediate benefits of using a CPAP machine include reduced snoring, better sleep quality at night and less daytime sleepiness.
StatPearls Publishing. . OSA diagnoses can range from mild to moderate to severe, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, a constant air pressure delivered by a device into the airway to keep them open, is the most common and effective treatment for the condition.
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when breathing is repeatedly stopped and started due to a narrowed or closed airway. As the throat muscles relax, the airway closes, limiting the oxygen intake to the lungs.
Side effects of CPAP treatment may include congestion, runny nose, dry mouth, or nosebleeds; humidification can often help with these symptoms. Masks may cause irritation or redness of the skin, and use of the right size mask and padding can minimize website pressure sores from tight contact with skin.
A number of surgeries can reduce apnea events, though the evidence for their efficacy is limited to small studies.
CPAP remains the gold standard for treating moderate to severe OSA, but there are many other sleep apnea treatments to consider, from CPAP alternative devices to natural solutions.
CPAP is the most effective means of treating snoring and sleep apnea. It keeps airway passages open which prevents pauses in breathing and helps you to get better sleep.
Physicians should monitor for compliance and follow up with their patients closely especially during initiation of CPAP therapy to ensure long-term success.[7] Patients must disclose any adverse effects that may limit compliance which must then be addressed by the physician.
There are a number of problems that can occur, usually during the first weeks of treatment with CPAP. They are mostly mild and it is normally possible to overcome all of them.
Compliance Matters: Many people quit CPAP therapy due to initial discomfort. To get the most out of your treatment, practice wearing your mask and keep your equipment clean.