Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. It can cause loud snoring, choking, gasping for air during sleep, daytime fatigue, concentration and memory issues, and many more symptoms.
If left untreated, it can lead to more serious health issues such as heart problems or high blood pressure. But there is no need to worry. Many effective sleep apnea devices work and can help you with this condition.
Want to find out what they are? Keep reading!
What are sleep apnea devices?
Sleep apnea devices are medical tools designed to help people breathe better during sleep.
How do they do that?
By keeping the airway open, so that more air enters the body. This way, they prevent sudden pauses in breathing, thus improving sleep quality and overall quality of life.
Such devices include PAP machines, oral appliances, etc.
By the way, if you want to learn everything about sleep apnea, read our enlightening article!
Devices to help you with sleep apnea
Now we’ll break down some of the most effective sleep apnea devices currently available.
Let’s get started!
1. CPAP machines
The CPAP machine (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is one of the most common devices for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
It is used to deliver a continuous stream of air into the nose and mouth, helping the airway stay open while sleeping.
CPAP machines include:
- CPAP face masks.
- A tube connects the mask to the device’s motor.
- An air filter is used to purify the air before it enters your nose or mouth.
Although CPAP devices have certain side effects (runny nose, dry mouth, skin irritation, etc.), they are considered the most effective medical tools for sleep apnea treatment.
Discover all our CPAP/Bipap consumables for proper oxygen therapy!
2. Bipap machines
Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) machines are quite similar to CPAP machines.
Their main difference is that while CPAP devices provide you with a continuous flow of air (standard pressure), BiPAP machines deliver two levels of pressure:
- When you inhale, they deliver more air pressure.
- When you exhale, they reduce the air pressure.
But what’s the point of that?
People with severe sleep apnea find it hard to tolerate the constant air pressure of CPAP machines. So BiPAP devices help them breathe out better.
3. Auto-PAP (APAP) machines
Unlike a CPAP (which delivers fixed pressure), an Auto-PAP machine (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure) is a sleep apnea device that automatically adjusts the pressure released based on the patient’s needs.
But how does an APAP machine know when one has stopped breathing?
APAP machines are equipped with sensors measuring breathing resistance and use algorithms to determine the level of pressure needed at any given time.
4. EPAP machines
Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure machines (EPAP) are a new CPAP alternative used mostly for treating OSA.
It is a valve worn over the nostrils of the patient before sleep, generating pressure only during exhalation. This way, it keeps the airway open, reducing snoring and apnea episodes.
EPAP devices don’t require a mask or a machine (like CPAP), which makes them a comfortable and discreet option for sleep apnea patients.
5. Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD)
Have you ever heard of oral appliance therapy for OSA?
The most commonly used oral (or dental) sleep apnea devices are mandibular advancement devices that help treat mild or moderate cases.
This device is like a mouth guard, like the ones athletes use, fitting over the upper and bottom teeth.
It works by pulling your lower jaw (mandible) a bit forward. That way, your tongue moves a little forward too, allowing more air to enter your mouth and body during sleep.
MADs are also called Mandibular Repositioning Appliances (MRA) since all they basically do is “reposition” your jaw and tongue.
6. Tongue-retaining devices
Besides MADs, tongue-retaining (or stabilising) devices are also appliances placed inside your mouth.
They are designed to hold your tongue forward, preventing it from blocking your airway and relieving you from unwanted sleep apnea symptoms.
They are also designed to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea and are an alternative for people who struggle with CPAP machines.
7. Nerve stimulation devices
Nerve stimulation devices are among the latest devices for sleep apnea treatment.
They are implanted under the skin through minor surgery and are activated before you go to sleep.
They work by sending electrical pulses to the hypoglossal nerve, which controls the movement of the tongue and other muscles that help keep the airway open.
The stimulation of this nerve keeps the tongue from falling back into the throat and blocking the airway.
These devices are a great option for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP devices.
8. Position pillows
There is also positional therapy for sleep apnea.
Positional therapy typically includes the use of position pillows that help people sleep on their side, reducing apnea episodes.
These pillows are designed for patients whose apnea gets worse in certain sleeping positions.
More specifically, when people sleep on their backs, the tongue and soft tissues collapse into the airway and block it.
Position pillows are used either alone or combined with CPAP machines.
Sleep apnea devices – FAQs
1. How does sleep apnea affect daily life?
2. What is the newest treatment for sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea devices that work — Summary
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to face this condition and reduce its symptoms.
With the right sleep apnea device, you can improve your sleep quality and quality of life. Don’t forget that if you want to find the proper device for you, first consult your healthcare provider.
Struggling with sleep apnea? Explore all our effective CPAP/BiPAP machines and improve your daily life!
