Sleep apnea is a common and dangerous sleep disorder that can have serious consequences for affected individuals. It is characterized by repeated episodes of stopping breathing and recurring brain arousal. While most people can get some restful sleep, individuals with sleep apnea may have reduced quality and quantity, leading to fatigue and grogginess in the day.

One treatment for sleep apnea is surgery. In most cases, it consists of a procedure called a uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) that removes the tissue that blocks the airway while also repositioning the soft palate to the back of the mouth. However, even with surgery, up to 30 percent of those who have sleep apnea will continue to experience it at some point. That’s why there are a variety of alternative treatment options as well. Explore the following article for more information on these alternative treatment options.

CPAP Machines

CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. It is a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea that requires a machine to provide a steady stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep. While not exactly a cure, CPAP machines are one of the most effective treatments available for sleep apnea. They work by acting as an airway pressure to keep the soft tissues in the airway open, preventing them from closing during sleep.

Oral Appliances

Oral appliances are used to treat obstructive sleep apnea by helping to open the airway. They do this by advancing the lower jaw forward.

EPAP Devices

Expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) devices are nasal valves that create back pressure on exhalation.

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation

eXciteOSA is a daytime therapy to improve responsiveness of the tongue and upper airway muscles.

Sleep Positioners

Sleep positioners can be used to help patients who are used to sleeping on their back to get used to sleeping on their side.

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