Many people suffer from sleep apnea without really realizing it. The problem causes fatigue, difficulty concentrating and, in severe cases, can seriously affect health. Fortunately, there are several options for reducing the symptoms of apnea, ranging from medical treatments to specialized devices.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) devices
The CPAP machine sends pressurized air through a mask to keep the airways open during sleep. This method is highly effective in reducing apnea, immediately improving sleep quality and reducing fatigue and irritability. Wearing a mask can, however, take some getting used to. There are pillows specially designed to facilitate use of the CPAP mask.
Mandibular advancement orthosis
Mandibular orthoses are an increasingly popular alternative to CPAP. This dental device slightly advances the lower jaw, keeping the airway clear. Its comfort and portability make it a popular option, although its effectiveness depends on the patient's morphology. Adaptation and regular follow-up by a specialist are recommended.
Positional therapy
In some cases, apnea occurs mainly when the patient sleeps on his or her back. Positional therapy is a simple and effective solution for people with positional apnea. It involves preventing the person from sleeping on their back, using special pillows or positional belts. Although less intrusive than other methods, it is generally recommended for mild to moderate apnea. This solution can significantly reduce the number of apneas per hour of sleep.
How to identify positional apnea
Positional apnea is characterized by episodes mainly in the dorsal position.
Here's how to know if you're affected:
• Nocturnal symptoms: Intense snoring or pauses in breathing in the supine position, which sometimes subside with side sleeping, may indicate positional apnea.
• Sleep tracking: Connected watches and tracking apps can help, but their data can be inaccurate.
• Daytime symptoms: Excessive fatigue, morning headaches and difficulty concentrating can be linked to sleep apnea, especially if symptoms improve when you sleep on your side.
Lingual stimulators
Lingual stimulators, such as the Inspire Sleep device, are recent and less well-known solutions. Implanted under anesthesia, they stimulate the tongue muscles to prevent airway obstruction during sleep. These stimulators are particularly suitable for patients who cannot tolerate either CPAP or a mandibular orthosis. They send out small electrical impulses to prevent the tongue muscles from collapsing. Although this technology is still evolving, it offers promising results for moderate to severe apneas.
There are many solutions for reducing sleep apnea, tailored to the needs of each individual patient. Positional therapy, CPAP devices, mandibular orthoses or lingual stimulators: each solution offers specific advantages. Thanks to technological advances, treatment options are becoming increasingly effective, enabling patients to regain better-quality sleep. Don't hesitate to consult a specialist to determine which solution is best suited to your needs, and to explore reimbursement options.