CPAP machines are often prescribed to reduce the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but there are several CPAP alternatives. In many instances, less expensive solutions can work, without the inconvenience and discomfort associated with CPAP machines.
Why Are CPAP Alternatives Needed?
Since at least 50% of patients who are prescribed a CPAP machine are unable to keep using it for more than a few months, it makes sense to discuss these less invasive ideas with your doctor. The following suggestions for self-help treatment programs are based on recommendations given by the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute website of the National Institutes of Health.
Recommended Lifestyle Changes – Free CPAP Alternatives to Try First:
- Avoid Alcohol and Sleep Medications Before Bedtime
Alcohol, some illegal drugs, and certain prescribed medications can relax the muscles of the throat so completely that the airway collapse. When this happens, no air is able to enter the body, which will, in turn, cause the patient to wake up. This can happen many times in a night. without the patient knowing about it if the medication prevents him from waking completely. If sleep is disrupted often enough, the patient may have great difficulty staying awake during daytime hours, without knowing why.
If you have mild symptoms of sleep apnea, this one lifestyle change might be all it takes to get a good night’s rest.
- Lose a Bit of Weight
If you’re carrying even a few extra pounds, some of the fat may have been deposited in and around the throat and oral cavity. This can reduce the size of the air passage, which can then easily become blocked. Many people see a big difference in their symptoms after changing to a healthy diet.
- Sleep on Your Side
This may seem too simple to work, but it may be all that’s needed to sleep through the night. If you sleep on your back, (your spouse can tell you if you’re not sure), it can cause snoring while also interrupting your breathing while you sleep. If it’s difficult to change your habitual sleeping position, there are special pillows and positioning pads
- Keep Your Nasal Passages Open
If you suffer from allergies, your doctor may be able to suggest nose sprays or medications that will help keep your nasal passages open at night. These medications may also be needed if your doctor prescribes a CPAP breathing machine instead of suggesting that you try one of these self-help CPAP alternatives instead. Allergies can make it difficult for the machines to keep the airway open – but it makes sense to try the medication first, just in case it’s all you need.
If you don’t have allergies but your nasal passages close during sleep, one of the small anti-snoring devices on the market might help. They are designed to keep the nasal passages free so you can breath more easily while you’re sleeping.
- Stop Smoking
This is probably the most difficult self-help CPAP alternatives for patients to accept, due to the addictive nature of nicotine. However, according to the Mayo Clinic website, smokers are 3 times more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) than non-smokers, because smokers commonly have inflammation and fluid retention in the upper airway. If you stop smoking, your air passages may heal over time.
Since obstructive sleep apnea can cause serious problems, it’s important to discuss these self-help treatments with your doctor, who may prescribe a sleep study to determine how severe your symptoms are. If you decide to try one of the CPAP alternatives first, be sure to work with your doctor to find a sleep apnea solution that’s right for you.
