How Do Sleep Apnea Devices Work?
A diagnosis of sleep apnea calls for sleep apnea devices that can help you get a good night’s rest. These devices are meant to assist you in breathing better, which leads to higher quality sleep. Sleep apnea affects people in different ways. It causes the muscles around the tongue and in the throat to relax, blocking the flow of air to 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 come in both custom-made and over-the-counter varieties. While the custom-made version may fit your mouth perfectly and address your specific issue, it is not always the better choice. Some of the more common devices include Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, Mandibular advancement devices (MAD), and tongue retaining devices.
The primary benefit of these devices is to help patients breathe better at night. They can reduce snoring and keep the airways open, preventing obstructed breathing. This can lead to waking up more rested instead of groggy from a poor night’s sleep. If you have a spouse, your sleep apnea may also be affecting their sleep, as your snoring or pauses in breathing could interrupt their rest.
The CPAP uses a mask that 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. Some people find the CPAP uncomfortable and it can make it difficult to sleep.
The MAD is similar to a mouth guard and snaps in to ease the lower part of the jaw forward. This stabilizes the soft palate and tongue, keeping the airways open. Tongue retaining devices hold 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. As a result, you’ll get more sleep, and 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 want to get a better night’s sleep and not worry about how many times your breathing will stop, please give us a call. We can help you sleep better and improve your life and health. Your better night of sleep may even benefit your relationship. We have sleep experts who 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!