3 CPAP Alternatives for Treating Sleep Apnea

A CPAP machine is usually what doctors turn to first when they diagnose a patient with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This treatment has helped millions of people to achieve higher-quality rest — but it has some major downsides. Many patients find that the machine is uncomfortable, inconvenient, and noisy. If that is true of you, consider using one of the following CPAP alternatives in Boca Raton.

Oral Appliance Therapy

An oral appliance is a small, custom-designed device whose appearance resembles that of a mouthguard that you might wear for sports. However, the two types of appliances serve completely different purposes. The job of an oral sleep appliance is to gently move the jaw and keep it in a forward position at night. This slight repositioning helps the airway to remain open so you can breathe easily. Oral appliance therapy has been proven effective in addressing OSA of all levels, from the mild to the severe. The appliances are comfortable, easy to travel with, easy to clean, free of tubes and wires, and totally silent.

Many dentists offer oral appliance therapy, but not all of them are equally qualified to provide it. You should choose a dentist who has extensive experience with this type of treatment and who possesses a surpassing knowledge of OSA.

Lifestyle Changes

In most cases, lifestyle changes can lessen the severity of sleep apnea (less often, they can make OSA go away altogether). Applying them alongside oral appliance therapy can result in improved overall health and more enjoyable nights. Here are a few things you might try:

• Lose weight. Excess fat around the neck can cause or worsen sleep apnea.
• Sleep on your side. This lessens the likelihood that the tissues in your throat will fall backward and block your airway.
• Keep your bedroom exceptionally clean. Pat dander and other allergens can cause congestion in your airway.
• Quit smoking. Kicking the habit will reduce inflammation in your airway and improve the health of your entire respiratory system.

Correcting Anatomical Abnormalities

In some cases, orthodontics can help to correct anatomical abnormalities that lead to sleep apnea. However, because orthodontic treatment often takes years to complete, you should consider using an oral sleep appliance or other device in the meantime.

Surgery can also address many types of anatomical abnormalities. However, this is an expensive option, and any type of surgery carries a level of risk. Surgery is usually only considered as a last resort for treating OSA.

Do you feel like a slave to your CPAP? One of the above-listed alternatives may be the perfect way for you to conquer your sleep apnea in Boca Raton.

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth Mogell is a sleep apnea expert in the Boca Raton area. He has many years of experience and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. He specializes in providing oral appliance therapy. If you would like to speak to Dr. Mogell about how you may be able to say goodbye to your CPAP, contact any of our four conveniently located offices.