CPAP via face mask: A full face mask is placed over the nose and mouth with a good seal. It can be used for those that are mouth breathers, or for pre-oxygenation in spontaneously breathing patients prior to intubation.
Tongue retaining devices keep the tongue forward so that it does not block the airway. These devices also help reduce the number of apnea events experienced, although studies have shown issues with compliance. People tend to prefer mandibular advancement devices over tongue retaining devices.
BiPAP: Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines allow for different pressure settings for inhalation and exhalation. Users who find it uncomfortable to exhale against the constant pressure of a CPAP machine may prefer the lower expiratory pressure on a BiPAP machine.
The HumidX system increases moisture in the air to prevent dryness and ease the breathing process. You can check your sleep data using the ResMed Mini smartphone app, which stores up to 30 day of your sleep data. The app also alerts you of any mask leaks.
Maxillomandibular advancement is a surgery that pushes the jaw and other tissues forward. This procedure tightens the inner walls of the throat to reduce the risk of airway collapse.
This device stimulates the hypoglossal nerve that causes the tongue to move forward in the mouth and expand the airway. A remote control is used to turn on the device at bedtime.
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when breathing is repeatedly stopped and started due to a narrowed or closed airway. As the throat muscles relax, the airway closes, limiting the oxygen intake to the lungs.
Nasal masks – these are the most common type of mask. They sit over the nose and are held in place by a strap around the head. However, they are not very useful if you cannot breathe through your nose particularly well.
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For patients using CPAP in the outpatient setting at home, it is important to wear it regularly while asleep overnight and during daytime naps.
CPAP is the most effective means of treating snoring and sleep apnea. It keeps airway passages open which prevents pauses in breathing and helps you to get better sleep.
Keep in mind that read more using your CPAP machine in conjunction with a mask that works well for you, is key. If you are finding your current mask uncomfortable, you may need to change your mask. Otherwise, I would encourage you to continue working with your doctor about the way you are feeling and any symptoms that arise.
Adjusting to CPAP therapy can be challenging for a variety of reasons including discomfort to air delivery, irritation from a device’s mask or difficulty acclimating to a machine’s sound level.
Some evidence also suggests myofunctional therapy, which features exercises to strengthen the upper airway, can help with sleep apnea, Dr. Cacho adds. Myofunctional therapy is an exercise program used to correct abnormal movements of the face and mouth. It might be conducted by a speech and language pathologist or other health care provider who has a certification of orofacial myology.