Top CPAP comfort items—specifically for those who feel worse after starting CPAP treatment—that can enhance your CPAP experience include:
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) involves reducing the chances of airway collapse by addressing features of the mouth and throat that contribute to sleep-induced blockages.
Nasal cushions and nasal pillows – these masks are inserted into the nostrils. They offer a useful alternative to the different type of masks, especially for people who feel claustrophobic with a face mask or who cannot find a mask that suits them.
Tongue retaining devices (TRD) use suction to draw the tongue partially out of the mouth, which helps prevent the base of the tongue from blocking the airway.
Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder that causes repeated lapses in breathing during sleep. Symptoms can include snoring, headaches, and excessive sleepiness. Sleep apnea can be diagnosed using an at-home test.
“This approach can involve using special pillows designed to support the head and neck for side-sleeping, wearable devices that detect and alert you when you roll onto your back during sleep, or even shirts or vests with built-in mechanisms that make sleeping on your back uncomfortable,” she added.
Reducing alcohol and tobacco use may be helpful for lessening the symptoms of OSA. Drinking alcohol before bed can worsen OSA, promote snoring, and depress the central nervous system.
A built-in HumidAir heated humidifier warms and moistens the air prior to delivery, which can prevent rainout and reduce the potential for congestion.
Our core here content on Lung conditions and related factsheets has been translated to a number of other languages by our volunteer team.
Surgery often alters the shape and position of the soft palate, which is the rear portion of the roof of the mouth. UPPP is the most common type of surgery used to treat OSA.
A therapist may not only help stave off the symptoms of depression but also help you maintain a more positive outlook on life, increasing the likelihood of sleep therapy compliance.
It might be encouraging to know, though, that it’s common for people with sleep apnea to feel the same (or even worse) right after starting CPAP therapy.
Your headgear may need replacing when the straps become loose or you have difficulty maintaining a good seal when you move
If you qualify for Inspire therapy, your Inspire therapy-trained doctor will work with you, the hospital and your insurance company for approval.