What to Do If You Can’t Use CPAP for Sleep Apnea
Submitted by New Jersey Snoring Solutions on Sat 12/21/2019 - 09:00
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is an effective treatment for sleep apnea. The main drawback of CPAP is that many people find it uncomfortable. Some people may stop using their CPAP machine because they can’t get used to it or feel claustrophobic.
People who can’t tolerate CPAP shouldn’t let their sleep apnea go untreated. In this post, West Orange sleep specialist Dr. Ivan Stein discusses what to do if you can’t use CPAP for sleep apnea.
Determine Why CPAP Isn’t Working
It’s common for people to experience side effects when they first begin treatment with CPAP. Some people just need some time to get used to their CPAP machine.
You may also need to make some adjustments to your mask or the amount of air the machine is delivering. If you’ve tried to make these changes and are still unable to tolerate CPAP, you may need to explore your other treatment options.
Oral Appliances
Oral appliances are removable devices that you wear while sleeping to treat sleep apnea. They are a common alternative treatment for people who can’t use SPAP.
Oral appliances can be categorized as either mandibular-repositioning devices (MRDs) or tongue-retaining devices (TRDs). Both types of devices can keep your airway clear while you sleep.
Oral appliances offer several benefits:
- Portability makes them easy to travel with, so you’ll sleep well wherever you go.
- Your oral appliance will be custom-fit by a dentist for maximum comfort.
- People who can’t tolerate CPAP may find their oral appliance to be a more comfortable sleep apnea treatment option.
Choosing the Right Oral Appliance
MRDs hold your lower jaw forward and your mouth slightly open while you sleep. This opens up your airway to reduce snoring and allow you to breathe easier. There are many types of MRDs available, including the Oravan device, which was developed by Dr. Stein to be a comfortable and effective oral appliance.
TRDs hold the tongue forward during sleep. This prevents your tongue from blocking your airway and causing breathing problems.
Even people who use CPAP machines may choose to also use an oral appliance. The addition of the oral appliance may allow them to reduce the pressure of the CPAP machine, making it more tolerable.
If you’re unable to use a CPAP machine and want to know more about alternative sleep apnea treatments, contact New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Stein by calling (855) WHY-SNORE or (855) 949-7667 today.
