|  | Conditions Treatments | Sleep Disorders

What Other Options Do I Have if I'm on a CPAP Machine?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when the tongue falls back over the airway or when airway muscles and tissues like the tonsils collapse and obstruct breathing during sleep. CPAPs are effective at preventing an obstruction due to the delivery of a constant pressurized airflow forcing the airway to open. CPAP machine alternatives must be able to physically disable airway obstructions.

  1. Weight Loss

    • Some OSA is caused by carrying excess fat around the neck. This fat may become obstructive by causing the airway passage to become narrower. In weight related cases of OSA, weight loss can be an effective treatment option.

    Positional Treatment

    • Most OSA occurs when a sleeper is lying on his back because gravity can cause the tongue to fall back and/or the throat muscles to relax over the airway passage. Positional treatment to prevent supine sleep can be very effective against OSA. Products marketed specifically to prevent sleeping on the back may be purchased and come in various forms including alarms, an FDA approved pillow, tube and a cushion.

    Surgery

    • Surgery to treat OSA will attempt to remove an obstruction or widen the airway to prevent an obstruction. Airway enlargement or uvulopalatopharyngoplasty involves removal of the tonsils and adenoids and cutting down the tissue that hangs from the back of the roof of the mouth. Tracheotomies are also performed to treat OSA in which a hole is made in the windpipe for continuous passage of air when sleeping. Glossectomies and linguaplasties remove parts of the tongue. Maxillomandibular osteotomies and advancements move the jaw forward to maximize the airway.

    Oral Apliances

    • OSA sufferers may be fitted by a physician for an oral appliance that can reposition the jaw, tongue, hyoid bone and soft palate to prevent airway obstructions during sleep. Some appliances are less constrictive and simply stabilize the jaw and tongue. The Thornton Adjustable Positioner, SomnoMed MAS and the Herbst Telescopic Appliance hold the lower jaw forward enlargening the airway. Oral mouth guards that hold the tongue forward include SNOR-X, aveoTSD, and the Tongue Retaining Device. Appliances are available to lock the jaw, attach the tongue to the roof of the mouth, and some even act as nasal dilators.

Sleep Disorders - Related Articles