Sleep apnea sufferers are most often recommended the CPAP machine as the only solution to their problem, but is this strictly true? We examine alternatives to the CPAP machine that will help you to make an informed decision.
First and foremost, we should point out that the CPAP machine does work. CPAP is an abbreviation for ‘Continuous Positive Airway Pressure’. However, the name alone should inform you that these are not the most comfortable of devices to use during a night’s sleep.
The CPAP machine consists of a mask that is strapped onto the head and a machine that ‘blows’ air into the airways, keeping them open.
Various side effects have been reported:
- Claustrophobia
- Panic attacks
- Respiratory problems (congestion or inflammation)
- Poor sleep owing to physical discomfort
- Sleep disturbance as a result of noise from the machine or mask (during exhalation)
- Discomfort from poorly fitting masks and skin rashes at points where it contacts the skin.
Another unfortunate ‘side effect’ of the CPAP device is the high cost that will be paid for a genuine item. As a result, you may be eager to find more comfortable and less costly alternatives to the CPAP machine and the problem of sleep apnea.
Mandibular Advancement Devices – Backed by Science and Success Stories
Medical research has shown that MADs can offer viable alternatives to the CPAP machine and that an effective device will reduce or eliminate both snoring and sleep apnea in a large percentage of patients.
Doctors report success with treating snoring and sleep apnea in patients who are unsuitable for a CPAP machine or who find it too cumbersome and noisy to allow for undisturbed rest.
A plethora of these devices is available on the market, but unfortunately many of them are fitted inside the mouth and are often neither comfortable nor effective. Various approaches ranging from designs that are similar to a mouth-guard or gum-guard to devices that are intended to restrain the tongue exist.
These intra-oral devices come with their own range of issues and problems, the most common of which are pain in the teeth, jaw and tongue after use.
However, the principle of advancing the jaw to lift the soft palate and prevent the tongue from blocking the airways has proved successful and the device need not necessarily be fitted as an intra-oral device. For example, a straightforward chinstrap can be used to hold the jaw in the required position.
