Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes a person to stop breathing for short periods while sleeping. This happens when the muscles in the throat relax and block the airway, making it hard for air to get in and out of the lungs. The most common type of sleep apnea is called obstructive sleep apnea, which is typically caused by excess weight, obesity, or other factors that cause the airway to become narrow or blocked during sleep.
Sleep apnea treatment focuses on opening your airway to improve your nighttime breathing. Several devices exist to facilitate this outcome. CPAP machines, mouth appliances, and specialty pillows are some of the most often-used solutions. Let's learn more about sleep apnea devices and how they serve.
Mouth Devices
You can opt for a custom-made one or an over-the-counter product for a mouth device for sleep apnea. However, you must visit a dentist to fit it properly, regardless of the type.
One type of mouth device is the mandibular advancement device (MAD), which resembles an athlete's mouth guard. This device snaps over both the top and bottom teeth and includes hinges that enable the lower jaw to move forward, thus stabilizing the tongue and soft palate to keep the airway open during sleep.
- Mandibular advancement device (MAD): One could assume this to be an athletic mouthguard. The teething ring fits over both upper and lower teeth and clicks into place. A hinged lower jaw makes it possible to slightly move your jaw forward when you sleep, which helps to keep your airway open by keeping your tongue and soft palate from moving about.
- Tongue retaining device: An over-the-counter "boil and bite" device is available online or in stores. These devices are heated in hot water and then shaped to fit your mouth. They work by moving the lower jaw forward to improve breathing, but they may not be as effective as custom-made devices.
A European study found that custom-made devices were better at lowering the average number of apnea episodes per hour than devices you could buy anywhere. Before buying a mouth device, it is important to talk to your doctor about which one would work best for you.
These devices may not be as effective as custom-made options. European researchers analyzed 35 persons with mild sleep apnea. Both custom-made and "boil and bite" devices were used. The average number of apnea episodes per hour was significantly reduced only by the custom-made ones.
Ask your dentist or doctor for advice before purchasing a suitable mouth appliance.
Position Pillows
You may find a wide variety of pillows designed to treat sleep apnea with a quick online search. You can use them with or without a CPAP machine. They are available in different designs, such as a wedge shape that lifts your upper body.
If you have sleep apnea, the American Sleep Apnea Association recommends sleeping on your back with your body elevated from the waist up to prevent airway collapse. Make use of foam wedges rather than soft cushions.
Pillows for sleep apnea that don't require a CPAP machine shift your head and neck into a posture that keeps your airway open. Accessories for the CPAP machine are designed to make wearing the mask less of a chore. Several models include functions that reduce mask pressure or prevent the mask from turning around.
A report suggests that using a pillow with CPAP improves user comfort. Compared to people who didn't use the customized cushions, those who continued to use their machines were no more inclined to do so.
Tennis Balls
Half of those who suffer from this condition find that sleeping on their backs worsens their respiratory problems. If you sleep in that position, your tongue and soft palate may block your airway.
If you sleep on your side, you might find some relief. Some healthcare experts recommend pinning a tube sock stuffed with tennis balls to the back of your PJs if you tend to sleep on your back.
At least one study demonstrates the effectiveness of the tennis ball technique. After 6 months, 38% of the original 50 people who reported their experience with the method were still following through. They reported improved sleep quality, increased daytime alertness, and less snoring.
CPAP Machine
This is an abbreviation for continuous positive airway pressure. These machines use a mask that fits over your nose or your nose and mouth. It blows air at a pressure that maintains your airway open while you sleep. Your doctor can advise you on how to set it up on the machine and the proper pressure.
These devices have become smaller, lighter, and significantly quieter over time. Nasal congestion, dry mouth, and skin irritation are all common side effects that can be helped with treatments.
The key to utilizing a CPAP is to make it as comfortable as possible. You have a few different models to select from, so you should be able to find a mask that works for you. According to the National Sleep Foundation, the device is quite effective. Yet, experts suggest that using it every night is the key to success.
In Conclusion
In the end, sleep apnea machines are helpful for people who have sleep apnea. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines send a steady flow of air pressure through a mask to keep the airway open while the person sleeps.
Some people with sleep apnea may initially feel uncomfortable or have trouble getting used to the machine. But with the right use and adjustments, sleep apnea machines can make a big difference in how well you sleep and how healthy you are overall.
If you have sleep apnea, you should talk to a doctor. They can diagnose you accurately and help you figure out the best way to treat it, including using a sleep apnea machine.