Many patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may currently use, or have tried to use, CPAP machines in the past to help treat this disorder. While CPAP machines are highly effective at maintaining continuous airflow for you while you rest, the machines are often uncomfortable and can be inconvenient since they are so bulky. As a result, many patients experience CPAP failure. The team at Sleep Better in Tampa, FL, may be able to help find a more comfortable alternative to this machine so you can breathe better at night and improve your health.
Find Out If You Have A Sleep Disorder
Because disorders like OSA and chronic snoring occur while you are not awake, they can be hard to detect. In the mornings, you may have noticed that you feel tired, even after a full night’s rest, have a dry mouth, or have a sore throat. Your mood may have also changed over time due to the chronic fatigue. These symptoms could be a side effect of a serious disorder and require professional treatment to improve your health. Before scheduling an appointment with our team, you can take our apnea risk quiz to find out your chances. At your consultation, we can assess your symptoms and may give you an at-home test before diagnosing you.
CPAP Machines Explained
If you are diagnosed with a sleep disorder, you may have tried a continuous positive airway pressure machine before. This machine works by pumping continuous oxygen to you at night through a mask. CPAP machines are helpful because when you have OSA, you periodically stop breathing at night when you can’t get enough oxygen, which can be incredibly dangerous to your health. Although this machine is effective, many people fail to use it consistently because it can be uncomfortable for many people. It makes you wear a mask, which can make you feel claustrophobic. The machine may also be loud, which can keep you or your spouse awake at night, which negates its purpose.
How Oral Appliance Therapy Works
Your disorder may be treated with a less invasive oral appliance. Instead of wearing a mask during the night, you can wear this mouthguard-like device to keep your jaw forward and airways open. Many patients find this to be much more comfortable than a CPAP and just as effective. Besides providing a more comfortable treatment, it is smaller and easier to carry, so you may use it even when traveling. You should schedule a consultation with your dentist to learn more before beginning oral appliance therapy.
Get Started With Our Team
Are you struggling with obstructive sleep apnea that is disrupting your sleep and harming your health? Get in touch with our team today by calling Sleep Better Tampa in Tampa, FL, today at 813-607-5337.