TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment options depend on the severity of the sleep disorder as well as other individualised reasons. Some people with mild OSA are simply recommended changes to their sleeping habits and may just require something to assist them with positional sleeping.
Mandibular advancement splints (MAS) are similar to a mouth guard which pulls forward the lower jaw to allow the airway to remain open while sleeping. This treatment option is only recommended for mild to moderate sleep apnoea under clinical monitoring for efficacy. This treatment is not suited for someone with central sleep apnoea or poor dental health.
Nasal Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure (EPAP) is a small one-way valve worn under the nose that allows air to flow into the airways as the patient inhales, but restricts airflow on the breathe out. The increased resistance during exhalation creates positive airway pressure which prevents the airway from collapsing until the next inhalation. However these are also mainly suitable for milder conditions
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is used to increase air pressure in your throat so your airway doesn’t collapse while you are asleep. CPAP machines deliver a stable amount of air over the night, allowing the airway to open without forcing the lungs to inflate. This supports natural respiration.
Adaptive positive airway pressure (APAP) is used to increase air pressure in your throat so your airway doesn’t collapse while you sleep, however the pressure is variable unlike CPAP. APAP machines are designed to respond to you and will deliver the specific amount of air needed to prevent an apnoea. Like CPAP it will only deliver the minimum amount of air to maintain integrity of the airways. This supports natural respiration.
Chin Straps are useful (with or without another treatment) for someone who breathes through their mouth during sleep. It is an effective solution for mouth breathers as it may help to keep your mouth closed at night.
Nasal Sprays can be useful if you have allergies or a cold or just experience nasal congestion. This will improve the airflow into the lungs. Breathing through the nose also increases oxygen uptake in the lung cells. Talk to your pharmacist about a suitable nasal spray appropriate for your needs as some are not indicated for everyday use.
Positional Support include a range of devices, such as the Night Shift Sleep Positioner, designed to minimise time spent laying on the back (supine). This can help as apnoeas are often more prevalent when when laying on the back as there is extra pressure on the airways from gravity.