Most people associate sleep apnea or OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) treatment with one thing - the CPAP machine. And while the CPAP is the most widely used device to treat the sleep apnea, there is another option that most are never told about.
If you are someone who knows the misery of living with sleep apnea - either you have it yourself or sleep beside someone who does - you understand the discomfort that comes along with it. So the last thing you want is to add another layer of discomfort to your sleep.
This is usually what people think of when they hear of a CPAP machine...
A big, loud, obnoxious air-moving machine that gets strapped to your head and squeezes your face. While this isn't far off from reality, when used properly, it can still make a big difference in helping someone sleep better - and quite literally keep them alive.
Over 25 million people in the U.S. have OSA. Unfortunately, over 80% of these people go undiagnosed. Even more unfortunate is that those that are diagnosed, most likely will get a one-size-fits-all solution from their primary doctor or sleep center. That's right, they'll get prescribed a CPAP and sent on their way.
But there are other options. One of these options is a device that doesn't use forced air, or have a tangled mess of hoses and wires. Best of all, it doesn't even get strapped to your face. It's actually something you'd more likely find in your dentist office.
That's right, there is an oral appliance much like a retainer that is custom-built to fit your mouth and your bite that rests between your upper and lower teeth. This device pulls your jaw and tongue forward, keeping your airway open. This oral appliance treats sleep apnea by keeping your airway from collapsing on itself allowing you to breathe freely when you sleep.
Many people who have been forced to give up on the misery of a CPAP that doesn't work, may find much better results and relief from an oral appliance.
The one thing to remember is that your nose has to function correctly in order for any sleep apnea device to work properly. While an oral appliance may be more comfortable than a CPAP, neither of these OSA devices will work if your nose isn't working properly.
If you or your partner are struggling with the exhausting nightly battles with a CPAP, the best place to start is by getting a proper evaluation of your Breathing Triangle. Only then can you get to the root of the problem and solve your sleep apnea issues once and for all.
At ADVENT, we offer all options that work and we can stand behind, but we also steer towards getting to the root of the problem.
When you visit an ADVENT office, we won't allow you to settle for a one-size-fits-most approach. We'll work together to find the right fit for you.