One of the most common treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnea is the CPAP, which stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It’s a device that does just what its name says: it blows a steady stream of air into its user’s airway through a mask. At Poss Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions in Brentwood TN, the CPAP is a common treatment.
An estimated twenty-five million Americans suffer with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This is a condition that blocks the airway during sleep, preventing air from flowing in and out of the lungs. Symptoms include loud snoring, abrupt awakenings, awakenings with a dry mouth or sore throat, and difficulty staying awake during the day.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to many serious health issues, including:
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Heart attacks
- Diabetes
- Depression
The CPAP has been a Godsend for many sleep apnea patients, who report better overall health, lower blood pressure, improved concentration during the day, and less sleepiness.
As great a blessing as CPAP can be, even people who like it say they take some getting used to. Modern CPAP machines are not as cumbersome as they once were, but users still need to adjust to wearing an air tube gadget to bed each night. There is more than one design for the CPAP mask, and it’s important to find the one that is right for you.
An alternative treatment to the CPAP are sleep apnea appliances, or mandibular advancement devices, available at Poss Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions in Brentwood TN. These appliances ar similar in appearance to a mouthguard, and are worn just like one at night. They help to realign the jaw and tongue to enlarge and keep open the space in your upper airway as you sleep. If you or a loved one is coping with sleep apnea, do not hesitate to contact us today.
Learn More About Sleep Apnea Treatment
