CPAP – Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
This is the treatment recommended by the Department of Health* for adults with moderate or severe OSA, including symptoms. It consists of a mask worn while you sleep, attached via a tube to a machine which generates a flow of air to keep your airway open. This stops you from having apnoeas and helps you feel much better in the day.
*NICE technology appraisal guidance 139 (March 2008)
Surgery
There are operations that remove parts of the soft tissue at the back of the mouth. These are not used very much nowadays, although having your tonsils out can improve matters if you have large tonsils, and bariatric surgery for people who are obese can also help.
Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD)
This is a device worn over your teeth which is worn as you sleep. It is fitted so that it brings your jaw forwards, helping to keep your airway open. This can be used if you have mild to moderate OSA or if you cannot get on with the CPAP.
Lifestyle changes
There are things that you can do to help yourself. These include:
- Losing weight
- Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and sedatives
- Sleeping on your side
- Developing good “sleep hygiene”, for example: avoid long daytime naps, avoid intense exercise just before going to bed, ensure your bedroom is quiet and comfortable and avoid watching tv in the bedroom, go to bed at a regular time, go to bed only when you are sleepy, aim to get 7-8 hours sleep per night
Helpline
For advice about treatment contact the BLF Helpline on 08458 50 50 20 (Mon to Fri 10 am to 6 pm), calls charged at your local rate.
