Devices for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

 

It is estimated that more than five percent of Canadians over the age of 18 years are suffering from the more common type of sleep apnea which is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This condition has been very distressing to these people and has greatly impacted their quality of life. A number of devices or gadgets have emerged that are intended to address this serious problem.

 

Among these devices are the following:

Mouth Devices

Different oral devices, which can either be ready-made or customized, have been made available to those who suffer from sleep apnea. These are fitted by a dentist and are intended to be used during sleep. One such device is the mandibular advancement device or MAD, which looks very similar to that of a mouth guard used in sports activities. This is meant to stabilize the tongue and the soft palate in order to keep the airway open.

Another mouth device is the tongue retaining device which is intended to keep the tongue in place so as to keep the airway open. Also available for this condition is the “boil and bite” device which aims to move the lower jaw forward and enhance airflow.

 

 

Positional Pillows

These pillows are meant to relieve sleep apnea by elevating the upper body. This based on the idea that sleeping with the back elevated may aid in keeping the airway open which may reduce the incidents of sleep apnea. Although these position pillows are believed to be effective on their own, experts believe that these become more beneficial in conjunction with other sleep apnea devices.

 

 

Tennis Balls

Also used in the management of sleep apnea are tennis balls that are put into a tube sock and placed on the patient’s back. A number of doctors have in fact recommended this method to some patients. Though not indicated by how much, one study reported that the use of tennis ball did help some sufferers. Subjects in the study reported to have gained better sleep, more daytime alertness, and a decrease in snoring.

 

 

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Device

While the devices mentioned earlier may have shown some success in managing obstructive sleep apnea, none other has been proven to be as effective as the continuous positive airway pressure device or simply the CPAP device. In fact, doctors highly recommend this option for the treatment of this condition. The CPAP device may actually be considered as the gold standard for the treatment of this sleep order.

The CPAP device may look like a mask that is fitted over the nose and mouth. Held in place by straps, the device blows air at a pressure predetermined by the healthcare provider. With the regulated air blowing, the airways are kept open during sleep thereby preventing any occurrence of sleep apnea. This treatment option has been found very effective and is highly recommended by the National Sleep Foundation when treating sleep apnea.

Questions?

Call 1.877.430.2727 for help.

Written and Edited by Bill Bistak B Sc.,SEO/SEM Spc, CRT

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