A simple oral device called a TAP® 3 appliance may be an effective treatment choice for many patients who suffer from sleep apnea.

The TAP 3 is a “mandibular advancement” device for the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea. It is a custom-made, two-piece appliance that snaps firmly and comfortably over the upper and lower teeth, much like a sports mouthguard or retainer. Its basic function is to hold the jaw forward so the tongue and soft tissues of the throat do not collapse into the throat causing snoring and sleep apnea.

The design allows the patient to adjust the degree to which the lower jaw is held forward,  allowing both maximum comfort and effectiveness.

The TAP 3 oral appliance is being recommended by some dentists as an alternative to the use of CPAP machines, which many users find uncomfortable.

The main problems with CPAP machines are their noise level, and the feeling of air being forced through their mouth and onto their face if the mask isn’t properly sealed. Many patients are unable to tolerate these machines, even though they know their sleep apnea could lead to more serious conditions.

The TAP 3 oral device is easy to fabricate, more portable than a CPAP, and much more comfortable.

Proponents state that the TAP 3 device improves breathing and eliminates snoring in over 95% of all patients. It is also said to effectively treat sleep apnea while reducing the impact of associated health risks without the need for surgery, CPAP or medication.

The device is fabricated to fit the patient’s mouth. After the TAP 3 device has been created, a patient may need a second sleep study in order to judge the effectiveness of the device, and to see if any additional adjustments are needed.

If you have sleep apnea but you aren’t excited about using the CPAP machine and all it’s accessories in order to get a good night’s sleep, you may want to discuss the possibility of using a TAP 3 appliance with your doctor.

The Respironics CPAP mask is used with a CPAP machine in the treatment of sleep apnea. These models are popular because the unique gel cushion provides mask stability, superior comfort and the benefit of customization. Respironics makes both nasal and full-face masks.

Two Models of Respironics CPAP Mask:

Respironics Comfort Gel CPAP Nasal Mask

Respironics Profile Lite Nasal Gel Mask

This latex-free nasal mask by Respironics includes the customized gel cushion with a soft outer layer for gentle fit – and a customized inner layer that contours to the face.

This CPAP mask comes with deluxe headgear that adjusts in 8 places. The front swivel moves fully and allows wide range of tube positions, which helps make the mask more comfortable during sleep.

Things people like about this CPAP mask:

• People who use this mask appreciate it’s comfort and price, and how easy it is to get it on and off.
• The mask seal stays put, and it rarely leaks.
• The gel seal works even over a mustache.
• It doesn’t pull or bind, and it’s easy to wear.
• It’s quiet.
• It’s easy to make adjustments to the headgear.

Things people do not like about this Respironics CPAP Mask:

• The mask could come with better instructions.
• It doesn’t come apart for cleaning.
• It has Velcro straps that are slow to release
• The headgear will eventually stretch, requiring adjustment to keep it fitting correctly.

See more customer reviews and best price for this Respironics CPAP mask on Amazon.com

Respironics Comfort Full Face Mask

Respironics Comfort Full Face Mask

This mask is used by sleep apnea patients who cannot use the nasal mask because they breath through their mouth during sleep. As with any Respironics CPAP mask, it’s latex-free.

It’s lightweight, latex-free, and provides a good seal. The soft dual-flap cushion is more comfortable for broader noses, and the clear cushion surface provides a more secure seal

Things people like about this CPAP mask:

Users who have sent in reviews about this mask appreciate it’s comfort and good seal, and they like the way the swivel front allows the tube to move while they sleep. They also like the quick-release hose and headgear, and the fact that the mask is sturdy.

Things people do not like about this Respironics CPAP Mask:

On the other hand, the Velcro strap is easy to adjust, but it wears out more quickly than some users expect of CPAP accessories; and it doesn’t come apart for cleaning.

Overall, this mask gets very high ratings from users.

See the best price for this Respironics CPAP mask on Amazon.com

When you look at all the customer reviews, it looks like there are a few minor issues with the Respironics CPAP Mask, but the overall impression is favorable.

Used CPAP machines are sometimes available from reputable dealers, who refurbish the machines and sanitize them. If your doctor has prescribed a CPAP machine to treat your sleep apnea, you already know they can be expensive. Depending on the style and functions, these machines can run from $200 to $1,000 or more. So it’s natural to ask “where can I buy used CPAP machines?”

Before jumping into your purchase, there are things to carefully consider before you decide to buy a used machine instead of a new one.

Are Used CPAP machines Really Less Expensive?

Respironics BiPap

You’ll need to do some research on this yourself, but you may actually find that new CPAP models are sometimes less expensive than used CPAP machines. On the other hand, there are a number of brokers who offer completely refurbished machines, so it may pay to shop around.

You can also find used machines on eBay occasionally, but you should use extreme caution before buying from an individual, for reasons discussed below.

Are Used CPAP Machines Clean Enough?

If you buy a used CPAP machine, you’ll want to make sure it’s been totally sterilized before you use it. After all, someone has been breathing into the machine for at least a few months, and the warm damp atmosphere inside the tubes and filters are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria and fungal growths.

Regular cleaning also helps the machine work properly and last as long as possible – it’s a bit like regularly maintaining a car. If you’re trying to choose between buying from an individual on eBay and buying a used machine from a local medical equipment store, this is one of the things you’ll want to keep in mind.

Does it Come With Accessories?

When you’re comparing prices, find out if the company that sells the used CPAP machines includes accessories like the mask, hoses and humidifier, in the price. These separate items can add up the cost. Other common accessories, like a CPAP pillow, are rarely included and need to be purchased separately.

Can it be Adjusted to Your Prescription?

While it may be possible to purchase a used CPAP machine from an individual even if you don’t have a prescription, it could be a dangerous thing to do.

Any reputable store will require a prescription from your doctor before selling either a used or new machine. The reason is simple – your doctor will determine what pressure settings are needed for the machine, based on the results of your sleep study. The settings will be adjusted by the seller before it leaves the store.

Purchasing a used machine to self-treat a self-diagnosed illness is a dangerous idea. If you have a prescription, make sure the model you’re thinking about buying can be adjusted according to your prescription. If you look hard enough, you may discover there are used CPAP machines available that have all the features your doctor thinks you’ll need for effective treatment.

One of the most common questions for sleep apnea patients is “what’s the difference of CPAP vs BiPap?”

The CPAP and BiPap machines are both designed to provide treatment for symptoms associated with sleep apnea. Both types of machine are variations of the Positive Airway Pressure machines first developed in 1981.

CPAP – or Fixed-Pressure CPAP Machines

When your doctor first talks to you about treatment for sleep apnea, this is probably the term that is used, because this is the least expensive type of machine used for this purpose. It is also quite often used in hospital intensive care and neonatal units.

The CPAP delivers a positive, fixed stream of compressed air to the patient through a hose and face mask. This forces the patient’s airway to stay open, which reduces the possibility of experiencing apnea – periods without breathing during sleep.

The CPAP machine does not breathe for the patient or force air into the lungs – it simply keeps the airways open by increasing the air pressure inside the airway.

After your sleep study, your doctor will prescribe a specific pressure, which will be set by the company that sells or rents you the CPAP machine. Your doctor may need to change the pressure later on.

BiPap® – or Variable/Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure Machines

Respironics BiPAP

BiPap is a registered trademark of the Respironics, Inc. company, although other companies make machines that perform similar functions. In this type of machine, the pressure changes during each breath cycle. When the patient breathes in, the air pressure is similar to a CPAP machine. The air pressure goes down when the patient breathes out, which may make it easier to breath while asleep.

BiPap machines tend to be more expensive, although it is sometimes possible to find used CPAP Machines from reputable dealers.

Compliance Issues, CPAP vs BiPap

Some patients find it very difficult to adjust to a CPAP machine, so a BiPap machine is prescribed to help make it easier to sleep. Other things that a patient might want to try are changing the style of mask and getting a special CPCP pillow. This may help a patient stick with the treatment program. However, there have been some research studies of CPAP vs BiPap and how they affect compliance, and the results have been mixed.

Whether your doctor prescribes the CPAP or the BiPapAlso, it’s important to take the time to be trained on the proper use of your machine so you’ll know how to use it comfortably. This will help you stick with the treatment plan long-term and reduce or eliminate the sometimes dangerous symptoms and risks of sleep apnea.

So – CPAP vs BiPap? The one that works best for your symptoms is probably the one recommended by your doctor.

CPAP Accessories Need to be Replaced Fairly Often.

Unfortunately, there’s no way to know exactly how long a given item will last, but the following list is based on general advice of several manufacturers of CPAP equipment. Medicare and private insurance companies may cover replacement more often, or less often, depending on their policies. When in doubt, call them and ask.

Estimated Replacement times for CPAP Accessories

• Full Face Mask or Nasal Mask and Cushions

Respironics CPAP Mask

The CPAP mask itself, which is made of hard plastic parts, should last at least a year, although it is sometimes less expensive to replace an entire unit, including the mask, tubing and cushions, rather than replacing the individual parts separately.

The mask includes a soft cushion made from silicone, which helps to make the mask more comfortable to wear. It also acts as a seal to prevent air leakage around the mask. The cushion must be replaced when it can no longer seal the mask against your face. Most manufacturers say their cushions should last for 3 to 6 months. The medical supply company that sells your CPAP accessories should give you suggestions about how to store and clean the cushion to make it last as long as possible.

• CPAP Headgear and Chinstraps

CPAP headgear and chinstraps help keep the mask in place while you sleep. Because they are made from flexible material, they can eventually stretch out of shape or fray around the closures. Cleaning the headgear and chinstraps regularly will help them last longer. Most manufacturers say you should expect these accessories to last from three to six months, although the chin straps may wear out more quickly.

• CPAP Tubing

The mask is attached to the CPAP machine with plastic tubing, which should last as long as the machine itself. Since bacteria can build up inside the tube, especially when a humidifier is used, you will want to wash the tube regularly to prevent respiratory infections. Unfortunately, some pets find the tubes irresistible, and pet owners may need to replace their tubes more often. This may be true for other CPAP accessories, too, because all the parts smell like the pet’s owner, and they’re almost always made with chewable plastic.

• Filters

Disposable filters need to be replaced when they become dusty or dirty, usually within 2 or 3 months. Non-disposable filters made out of foam can be washed, and will last until the foam itself begins to fall apart. Foam filters usually last between 6 to 12 months. You should look at your filter regularly to make sure it’s still working properly, and replace it whenever it’s needed.

• CPAP Machine and Heated Humidifiers

If you use a heated humidifier along with your CPAP machine, both pieces of equipment should last at least five years. The parts of the humidifier that usually break first are the heating elements and heat settings. Some manufactures suggest that you arrange for a backup CPAP machine and humidifier two years after purchase, just in case.

The humidifier may be an internal part of your CPAP machine, so be sure to ask if this part can be repaired if it fails before the rest of the unit.

With the exception of the humidifier, all other CPAP accessories can usually be purchased in sets, which will be less expensive than replacing each part individually, even though they don’t all wear out at the same time.

If self-help programs and lifestyle changes fail to help reduce the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, your doctor may prescribe a  sleep apnea machine, or “CPAP”. These machines continuously blow air into the oral cavity, keeping the airway open so the patient can breath easily and get a good night’s rest. The  machine airflow pressure is titred (set) to the individual patients needs, according to the results of the patient’s sleep study.

Purchasing Your First Sleep Apnea Machine

Sleep Apnea Machine in Use

These machines can be purchased for use while sleeping at home, and travel models are also available. Humidifiers are sometimes included in the design of the device, but not always. Heated humidifiers help prevent the nasal and oral passages from drying out.

Because sleep apnea machines require power, you may want to consider purchasing a backup power unit to use in case the power goes out. For standard 120 volt AC power, self-contained battery powered inverters are available that can help with this problem. Be sure to keep the battery charged so it’s ready when needed.

Other Equipment You’ll Need

To use your sleep apnea machine, you will need a headgear and mask. Various designs are available, and many patients find that they need to try several different designs in order to find one that allows them to be comfortable. Some individuals do just fine with a standard nose mask or nasal pillow while other patients need a full face mask that covers their mouth.

Hoses are also needed to connect the machine to the mask, and the hoses may need to be rigged above the sleeper to prevent tangling and drainage of condensation into the users face. Usually condensation problems can be managed by experimenting with which heat setting works best in your bedroom environment. Remember hot + cold = wet. If the heat setting is too high and the bedroom is cool or vice-versa, condensation will build up.

Some people find that they can sleep more comfortably if they purchase a CPAP pillow.

Common Problems with the Sleep Apnea Machine

The drawbacks associated with sleep apnea machines include difficulty adjusting to sleeping with a mask, and getting tangled in the hose with restless sleep. For many people with severe sleep apnea these are non-issues. The body is craving sleep so fiercely that the patient will fall asleep and stay asleep. Unfortunately, these discomforts cause more than 50% of patients to discontinue the use of their CPAP machines after a few months.

Another drawback is if a patient is a mouth breather, because breathing through the mouth can cause the the nose mask to be ineffective. These patients may need a chin strap to keep the mouth shut or a full face mask that covers the nose and mouth. Also, if you breath through your mouth because of allergies that restrict the air flow through your nose, your doctor may be able to help you find an allergy medication that will help. You may even discover that your sleep apnea symptoms naturally go away without a sleep apnea machine if your nasal passages are able to stay open using an effective allergy medication. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor.

Headgear and hoses should be washed in hot soapy water daily to prevent the build-up of germs that could cause respiratory illnesses.

If you find that your treatment is uncomfortable, or you simply have a hard time adjusting to sleeping with the sleep apnea machine and mask, be sure to ask your doctor for advice before giving up on the treatment.

Do You Have Questions About Your Sleep Apnea CPAP Machine?

The following questions are often asked by people who have just received a prescription for a sleep apnea CPAP machine, or who are just now getting used to using one to treat the symptoms of sleep apnea.

• How long will it take to get used to sleeping while wearing the CPAP mask?

The only honest answer is “it depends.” Some people get comfortable with the CPAP machine and mask quite easily, while others are never able to get used to it. University studies have shown that the “compliance” of patients who have been prescribed the CPAP machine is about 50%, often because they can’t get used to sleeping with the  mask.

It’s perfectly normal to have difficulty sleeping the first few nights  with your sleep apnea CPAP machine. Some users suggest that you get used to the sound of the machine first, and then, perhaps on the second night, put on the mask. However, other users have found that they are so exhausted from the symptoms of their sleep apnea that they get a good night’s sleep the very first they use the machine.

If you feel anxious when you put on the mask for the first few times, you may want to wear the mask alone for a few minutes while you read a book or watch TV. If you still remain too anxious to use the mask, and you cannot fall asleep, you should discuss it with your doctor.

Unfortunately, a large percentage of patients are never able to get comfortable, so they’re forced to give up on using their CPAP machine after a few weeks or months. If this happens to you, you will want to talk to your doctor about using one of the self-help ideas that have been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of sleep apnea.

• Will the mask cause sores?

As with a new pair of shoes or the first time you wear glasses, you may find that your nose develops a blister or sore under the mask. You may want to put a Band-Aid or moleskin tape on your nose where the mask is likely to apply pressure. Some masks are specially designed to help prevent this problem, like the Respironics CPAP mask, which uses a soft gel cushion. However, if pressure sores do develop, discuss it with your doctor. The sore may require treatment, and you may need to change the type of mask you’re using. Several types of masks are specifically designed to reduce the pressure and make your night more comfortable.

• Is it difficult to make the CPAP mask fit?

The equipment supplier who sells you the mask should be able to help you find one that fits well. They sell a lot of these machines and the equipment that goes with them, so they are often the best source of help. Some masks are designed to fit tightly without causing too much pressure. If the mask you purchase remains uncomfortable even after you’ve had a chance to get used to it, or if air continues to leak out around the mask, you should talk to your doctor or your medical equipment supplier to see if adjustments can be made or if another model would work better.

• Will the air from the sleep apnea CPAP machine cause my nose and throat to dry out?

This is one of the major drawbacks of the sleep apnea CPAP machine, and it’s the reason that some models come with humidifiers. Without the humidifier, you may experience nasal dryness, sneezing fits, or the symptoms of allergies, cold, or sinus infection. Machines are available with both heated and cool humidifiers. Your doctor or equipment supplier will be able to help you decide which one will work best for your specific needs.

• Will I need a full face mask?

Some people habitually sleep with their mouth open. For these patients, the regular nasal mask or pillows will not effectively alleviate their symptoms, because they don’t get the full effect of the pressurized air. If you know you sleep with your  mouth open, you may need either chin straps to keep the mouth closed, or a full-face mask.

• Will the CPAP machine cause intestinal gas?

Many people experience a condition called “aerophagia” when they first begin using their sleep apnea CPAP machine. This is caused by swallowing some of the forced air, and it can feel like the type of gas you get when you eat the wrong kinds of food. Because it can be uncomfortable, you should discuss this with your doctor. Some patients are able to stop this from occurring by raising the head of their bed a few inches, using a bed wedge, or switching to one of the AutoCPAP machines.

• Will the CPAP mask stay on at night?

Sleep Apnea CPAP Machine with CPAP Pillow

Some people remove their mask during the night while they’re sleeping, without knowing it. If you find this is happening, you should discuss it with your doctor.

For most people, this stops happening after they get more used to wearing the mask, but some people try using Band-Aid or other type of tape to hold the mask on the tape to make it more difficult to remove while sleeping.

Others have found that it helps to use a special CPAP pillow, or switch to one of the BiPAP machines, which removes the difficulty some people have in exhaling against the pressure of the CPAP machine.

• How long does it take for the machine to improve your symptoms?

Some people get a good night’s sleep the very first night they use their machine. Others take more time to get used to the machine, or find that their symptoms take longer to improve. Usually, patients will report feeling better sometime between one week and six months after starting their treatment. The folks who need to use the machine longer in order to feel better may have been going without adequate sleep for a very long time, and their body’s need more time to recover.

Unfortunately, the discomfort associated with the mask, hoses and noise causes up to 50% of people who try a CPAP machine to give up their treatment before they see a reduction in their symptoms. For people who have less severe symptoms or who cannot get comfortable with a CPAP machine, there are also a number of alternative treatments that are known to be effective. You can read about alternatives to CPAP machines here.

• Do I have to use the machine when I travel?

Yes. As you’ll see when reading your owner’s manual, it is recommended that you use the CPAP machine any time you sleep, even for naps. If you travel extensively, you may want to purchase a portable machine.

• What’s the best way to get information about my sleep apnea treatment?

Your doctor should always be your first contact if you have any question about the CPAP machine or any symptoms you may be having. Online sleep apnea forums are good ways to get ideas, but only your doctor knows you and your specific condition. Rely on your doctor, not on information you find on the Internet, if you have any questions or concerns about your sleep apnea CPAP machine or your treatment program.

A CPAP pillow is often used by people who need a  CPAP machine to relieve symptoms of sleep apnea. The CPAP mask that is attached to the machine can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. A  CPAP Pillow can help because it is specially designed to accommodate the shape of the CPAP mask.

How the CPAP Pillow Works

The depressions in the pillow allow the user to comfortably sleep on their side. With a normal pillow, the CPAP mask presses against the pillow, causing pressure against the face. This not only makes sleeping difficult, but it can also break the seal around the mask, which will interfere with the delivery of carefully regulated air coming from the CPAP machine.

The use of the special pillow will also help new CPAP users get accustomed to sleeping while wearing the mask. Most users find that the pillow helps the mask stay on firmly without pressing too tightly against the face, and this helps users sleep through the night without waking.

When choosing a CPAP pillow, make sure you find one that feels comfortable. The one you choose should allow you to sleep in a variety of positions, so you will end your night feeling completely rested. The pillows come in a variety of shapes and thicknesses, and some pillows are specially made so they easily fold up to fit in an overnight bag or briefcase. The degree of softness also varies between manufacturers.

Choose carefully, because, for sanitary reasons, most CPAP pillows cannot be returned to the store once the package has been opened and the pillow has been used. If your doctor has other sleep apnea patients using the CPAP machine, she may be able to offer some helpful advice about this accessory.

Can You Make a CPAP Pillow?

Some people have designed their own CPAP pillows out of  foam rubber, cotton sheeting and a sewing machine. Getting the contours just right may be a challenge, because you’ll need to sculpt the shape with a serrated knife and then cut your fabric to fit over the pillow. You can find instructions for making your own CPAP pillow here.

Although most manufacturers use foam inside their pillows, you can also buy CPAP pillows filled with buckwheat hulls, which move around to accommodate the mask and different sleeping positions during the night. This type of CPAP pillow would be the easiest type to make yourself, but it may take a bit more time to get used to it.

Several different companies manufacture what they consider the best CPAP machine for sleep apnea, but people and symptoms are all different, so there are a variety of different designs and features even in machines made by the same company. The best CPAP machine for your sleep apnea will depend on your own symptoms and conditions. Your doctor will help you determine the best type to buy. CPAP machines are considered medical equipment and they are only available with a prescription from your doctor.

The specific type of CPAP machine you need will be noted on the prescription from your doctor.

How Your Doctor Determines the Best CPAP Machine for  Sleep Apnea

Your doctor will determine which type of machine is best for your particular sleep apnea symptoms after you have completed a sleep study.

Once the sleep study is complete, if you have fairly mild symptoms your doctor will probably talk to you about the possibility of using self-help lifestyle changes to treat your symptoms naturally, because many patients find the CPAP machine too uncomfortable to continue using one for more than a few months. However, if the sleep study shows that your symptoms are too severe for self-help, she will probaby prescribe one of the following types of CPAP machine. (In very extreme situations, surgery may be required).

All CPAP machines are designed to improve the symptoms of sleep apnea. CPAP means Continuous Positive Airway Pressure.

Different Types of CPAP Machines

In addition to the common CPAP machine, there are also AutoCPAP machines, which automatically adjust the airflow pressure on a breath by breath basis so you receive only the minimum pressure needed to keep your airway open during sleep. And there’s the BiPAP (or BiLevel or VPAP) machine, which delivers two separate and distinct pressures.

The higher pressure is delivered when the patient inhales and the lower pressure comes through the mask when the patient exhales. As with the CPAP machine, the pressure is set by the doctor’s order or  prescription, and was determined through a sleep study.

According to the University of Texas Medical Branch website (links to PDF), there is “no objective evidence [that] demonstrates improved compliance over CPAP” when the BiPap machine is prescribed instead. The overal compliance rate (the percentage of patients who are able to continue with their treatment using a CPAP machine of any type) is around 50%.

Insurance Coverage for Sleep Apnea Treatment

This type of equipment is typically covered by insurance, under the durable
medical equipment benefit. Some people find that they feel more comfortable renting a machine, at least for a few weeks, so they know for sure they’re getting the one that offers the best alleviation of their symptoms; and some insurance companies require their members to rent before they buy.

Be sure to talk to your insurance company to determine exactly which type of CPAP machine they’ll cover, and which accessories are included in your benefits. Your doctor may be able to adjust your prescription if your insurance company will not cover one of the more expensive AutoCPAP or BiPAP machines. Also, remember that if you decide you need a separate machine to use during travel, your insurance may not cover it. It’s always best to call them and ask.

You May Need a Humidifyer, Too

Of particular importance is the question of whether or not you will need a unit that includes a humidifier, and if so, which type of humidifier will you need. This is something that you may not be able to determine until you’ve used the
unit for a week or so. The humidifier becomes necessary if the patient’s nose and throat dry out from the pressurized air flow.

If a humidifier is needed but is not used, some people experience nasal dryness, sneezing fits, or the symptoms of allergies, cold, or sinus infection. Machines are available with both heated and cool humidifiers. Your doctor or equipment supplier will be able to help you decide which one will work best for your specific needs.

CPAP Face Masks and Pillows

You will also need to determine if you need a full-face mask. Some people habitually sleep with their mouth open. For these patients, the regular nasal mask or pillows will not effectively alleviate their symptoms, because they don’t get the full effect of the pressurized air. If you know you sleep with your  mouth open, you may need either chin straps to keep the mouth closed, or a full-face mask. Some people know they sleep with their mouth open  because they have a dry mouth when they wake up, or their sleeping partner may know.

The technician who worked with the patient during the sleep study might also make note of this, and pass this information on to the doctor. If you know you’ll need a full-face mask, work with your doctor to choose one that will cause the least amount of discomfort during sleep.

Travel-Size CPAP Machines

If you do a lot of traveling, you may want to purchase or rent one of the easily
portable travel CPAP devices, which come with a carrying case. If you travel overseas, be sure you have the ability to convert your unit to foreign currents.

So, the answer to the question “what is the best CPAP machine for sleep apnea symptoms?” is not easily answered – be sure to talk to your doctor about the choices you’ll need to make, so you will receive the quickest relief from your sleep disorder symptoms.

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 that may help.

• 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.