Treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Positive airway pressure (PAP)
The most effective and reliable treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is positive airway pressure (PAP). There are different kinds of PAP, including CPAP, APAP, BIPAP, and ASV. The PAP blows air and is applied through a mask while you sleep. It keeps your airway open like air pressure keeps a tire inflated. PAP controls but does not cure your sleep apnea. If you do not wear PAP, the symptoms and consequences of sleep apnea will return.
Inspire therapy
Inspire therapy is an alternative for some people that cannot tolerate CPAP. A pacemaker is implanted into the chest but is used to stimulate the muscles in the airway to keep the airway open while you sleep. You are provided a remote control to turn the device on when you go to sleep. In order to be eligible for the Inspire you must have at least moderate sleep apnea and have a body mass index of 35 kg/m2 or less.
Lifestyle changes
If you are carrying extra weight, your sleep apnea may be improved by losing it. Losing weight is difficult. The keys to weight loss are decreasing your calories and increasing the calories you use with activity. Do not try fad diets as the results will not last. You must make a lifestyle change by changing your eating habits permanently, and exercising in moderation. Start by walking briskly for 5 minutes and slowly build up. You are more likely to continue an exercise program you enjoy. Additionally, alcohol or sedating medicines will worsen your sleep apnea, and these should be avoided. Untreated sleep apnea, combined with narcotic or sedative use, can be deadly. Medicines used during and after surgery are sedating. Therefore it is imperative to wear your CPAP during any postoperative period. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you are sleepy. People with sleep apnea have more accidents because they are sleepy and have lapses in attention.
Dental appliances
Mandibular advancing devices are dental appliances that can improve sleep apnea. These devices pull your lower jaw forward and help open your airway. They are provided by dentists.
Treat nasal and sinus congestion
Treat nasal congestion. It will be harder for you to breathe on your own or with PAP if your nose is congested. Using NeilMed Sinus rinse followed by fluticasone propionate, 2 squirts in each nostril before bed, is a good start to treating congestion. Both are over the counter. Do not use Afrin for more than 3 days to treat nasal congestion.
Avoid sleeping on your back
Sleep apnea is usually worse when you sleep on your back. The Zzoma Pillow and Slumber Bump are pillows available online that treat positional sleep apnea by keeping you off your back.
Surgery
Surgery is another option for treating sleep apnea. It is recommended only in selected cases. Please ask your doctor if you are a good candidate for surgical options.