For some time now you’ve had problems with breathing while you sleep. This is a serious problem that you don’t take lightly, but you’ve been disappointed in thinking that there’s only one option for you, the constant positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. You know that you can’t just dismiss your problem, but you’re desperately seeking an alternative for sleep apnea treatment in State College. Learn about some simple options available to you.
What is CPAP?
A CPAP machine is used to address a problem that’s becoming more common: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Sufferers of this condition experience interruptions in their breathing caused by a blockage in their airways that stops their breathing for a few seconds. This condition can lead to more serious issues like chronic daytime drowsiness, heart disease and stroke.
The device consists of three primary pieces: the motor, hoses and mask. They have the following functions:
- Motor – This is a small compressor that pulls in room temperature air and pressurizes it. It’s designed to deliver the necessary amount of air you may need to clear an obstruction.
- Hoses – The hose transports the pressurized air from the motor to the mask.
- Mask – This is the main apparatus that is worn for the wearer to breathe through.
Problems with the CPAP Method
There are many issues that have been noted with the CPAP machine by consumers:
- Claustrophobia – For some, it’s uncomfortable, and for others, it makes them feel smothered. This can be overwhelming and cause a degree of panic.
- Bad Fit – For some people, there are design flaws with the CPAP, as it doesn’t fit the contour of their face.
- Dry or Stuffy Nose – The artificial air permeating their airways can cause irritation for some people.
- Noise – Another issue that bothers people, is the unnatural noise that the machine makes that interrupts their sleep.
- Tube in the Way – As people move around as they sleep, some complain of the tube getting tangled. This too, can cause drowsiness and extreme fatigue from lack of sleep.
An Alternative to CPAP
A CPAP alternative in State College is to use oral appliances. They are smaller, quiet and convenient to transport. Some examples are:
- Somnodent Sleep Appliances – These small appliances are custom fit to place pressure on the soft tissue and throat muscles that usually relax at night. This encourages better airflow.
- The Oasys Herbst – This option offers patients a dual airway dilation, keeping both the nasal and throat passages open.
- The Narval – The Narval works by shifting the jaw forward, creating pressure on the throat to keep the airway open.
- The Suad – This is optimum for patients who have a significant gag reflex, allowing them to make quick adjustments to it at home.
- The EMA – This appliance keeps the throat open during sleep, even when the patient is congested.
- Thornton Adjustable Positioner – This final option shifts the jaw forward during sleep and is crafted from three separate parts that allow for easy adjustment at home.
Each option provides an alternative to the bulky, CPAP machine. To find out which one is best for you, reach out to your dentist and take the proactive approach to protecting yourself at night without any cumbersome parts to interrupt your precious rest.
About the Author
Donald M. Marks, DMD earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Pittsburgh. He eagerly pursues continued education from several prestigious organizations, including the Institute for Advanced Dental Studies – Periodontal Prosthesis, Scottsdale Center for Dentistry, Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Studies – Functional Esthetics and The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. He practices at State College Dental Sleep Medicine and can be reached for more information through his website.