Best Alternatives to CPAP
Around 50 to 70 million adults have a sleep disorder, according to the American Sleep Association. One of the leading sleep disorders continues to be sleep apnea. One of the leading sleep apnea solutions is the continuous airway pressure (CPAP) machine. CPAP machines use airway pressure to expand airways for better breathing at night. They come with a large central machine and require a hose and mask. Although this is a viable form of treatment, some patients find it difficult to use.
- Problems with the mask
- Claustrophobia
- Hard to travel with
- Sore throat
- Dry mouth
- Loud and annoying
- Inability to move during the night
- Hard to adjust to
- Stuffy nose
Over the years, newer and more effective forms of sleep apnea solutions have been developed. Some patients believe that the CPAP machine is too bulky and difficult to operate in comparison to other forms of treatment. With the surge of new options, patients with sleep apnea are able to get a full night’s rest without having to use a CPAP machine.
The mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a dental device uniquely molded to fit the patient’s mouth. This noninvasive treatment solution moves the jaw forward to open the airway during sleep. This discreet, nondisruptive oral device allows patients to place it in before bed and sleep peacefully without having to deal with any machinery.
Provent is a sleep therapy system that uses expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) to clear nasal airways. This device is a disposable device that is placed over the nostrils nightly to harness the power of breathing to keep the airway open during sleep. With nothing to plug in and no mask required, this is a perfect alternative to a CPAP machine.
Winx therapy is a quiet machine that uses a hose and a mouthpiece to deliver oral pressure therapy (OPT) throughout the night for a better sleep. This solution uses negative pressure to draw the soft palate forward and stabilize the tongue for optimal breathing. Patients are able to freely move during the night without dealing with a bulky CPAP machine or mask.
The Inspire system is a device that is implanted within the patient’s chest and controlled by a remote. The remote is programmed by the doctor and can be controlled by both the doctor and patient. This device opens the airway with a mild stimulation that reacts to breathing throughout the night. Inspire therapy circumvents the unnecessary hose, mask and disruptive aspects of a CPAP machine.
If you are interested in seeking treatment for your sleep disorder or an alternative to your CPAP machine, contact Dr. Shukla at Sleep MD and book your appointment today.
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