How Do Sleep Apnea Devices Work?
A diagnosis of sleep apnea calls for a need for sleep apnea devices that can help you get a good night’s rest. These sleep devices are meant to assist you in breathing better, which means higher quality sleep at night. Sleep apnea affects different people in different ways. In general, it causes the muscles around the tongue and in the throat to relax, which blocks the flow of air from reaching the lungs during sleep. Sleep apnea devices work to keep sufferers breathing smoothly through the night.
What Do Sleep Apnea Devices Do?
Sleep apnea devices can come in both custom-made and over-the-counter varieties, but the custom-made version is always better as it fits your mouth perfectly, ensuring that your exact issue is addressed. Some of the more common devices are Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, Mandibular advancement device (MAD) and tongue retaining devices.
The most common benefit of these devices is to help patients’ breathe better at night. Not only does it help reduce snoring, but it also works to keep the airways open so that breathing is not obstructed. It will also help you wake up more rested instead of groggy from a bad night’s sleep. If you have a spouse, your sleep apnea may be affecting them also. Their sleep could be interrupted by your snoring or their worry when you stop breathing numerous times a night.
The CPAP uses a mask which fits over the nose, or nose and mouth, and is held in place by straps. It blows air into the airways to help keep them open at night. For some people the CPAP is uncomfortable and makes it difficult for sleep to be achieved. The MAD is similar to a mouth guard, and snaps in to ease the lower part of the jaw forward, which stabilizes the soft palate and tongue and keeps the airways open; the tongue retaining devices holds the tongue in place allowing the airway to stay open.
Sleep Safer At Night
Sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring; it can cause you to stop breathing during the night, which is risky, if not life threatening. These devices help keep your breathing steady. So not only do you get more sleep, but you can rest assured that your sleep will be safe. Sleep apnea devices can also protect you from other serious illnesses that accompany sleep apnea, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes, as well as the lack of sleep it can cause.
If you really just want to get a better night of sleep and not worry all night about how many times your breathing will stop, please give us a call. Not only can we help you sleep better, we can help you improve your life and health. Your better night of sleep may even be the best thing for your relationship. We have sleep experts that will assist in finding the best plan for your sleep apnea. Call today if you would like to schedule a consultation. We’re happy to help you get some sleep!