Posted on Sunday, October 3rd, 2021 at 9:01 pm
If you have obstructive sleep apnea, the best treatment for the condition is the one that you will actually use. Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder that causes an individual to intermittently stop breathing while they sleep. In obstructive sleep apnea cases, breathing stops due to a blockage of the airway, sometimes because of the collapse of soft tissue in the throat. CPAP machines constantly deliver pressurized air throughout the night and help keep a person’s airway from collapsing.
However, CPAP machines aren’t the only treatment option available to people suffering from sleep apnea. Some oral devices also have a good track record of alleviating symptoms and helping individuals get a good night’s rest. If you feel like you are unhappily chained to your CPAP machine, here are five reasons why you may want to consider trying an oral appliance instead.
Comfort
CPAP machines can be uncomfortable. Many people report feeling claustrophobic when they wear a full mask. People who frequently toss and turn at night find that they tend to dislodge or remove their mask with their thrashing, defeating the purpose of wearing the mask or nasal cannula at all. An oral appliance is generally worn inside the mouth, almost like the retainer you had as a kid. The appliance helps to hold the jaw in the correct position and open the airway. Some individuals find wearing a properly fitted oral appliance to be much more comfortable than a CPAP machine.
Get Closer to Your Partner
Some sleep apnea machines are loud and bulky. Your partner either must contend with your snoring or the constant hum or drone of the CPAP machine. An oral appliance is silent and delivers comfort for you and comfort for your partner.
Less Embarrassment
Sleep apnea can be an embarrassing condition for some people. Who wants to invite a new partner over to spend the night, only to be hooked up to a machine with a giant face mask? Sleep apnea is your business and no one else’s. An oral appliance is small, discreet, and can be worn without anyone being the wiser.
Safe to Travel With
It’s not that CPAP machines are unsafe to travel with, but they sure are cumbersome and inconvenient. They take up valuable luggage space and make flying a hassle. Traveling with an oral appliance is easy since its case conveniently fits in a purse, pocket, or carry-on bag.
Good for Long-Term Compliance
Unfortunately, many people are gung-ho about getting their sleep apnea under control in the beginning. However, struggling with a CPAP machine may make some people lose the battle before the war. The cleaning, maintenance, and discomfort associated with a CPAP machine may eventually discourage people from using the device. Oral appliances can be better for long-term compliance.
If you want to explore all your sleep apnea treatment options, consult with the team at Silent Night Therapy. We can diagnose your sleep condition and give you treatment options that will address your specific issues. If you are ready to get a better night’s sleep, contact us today for a complimentary consultation.