The Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation device is expected to
be available to sleep apnea patients later this year after receiving FDA
approval at the beginning of May. The Inspire appliance is the latest addition
to the wide range of sleep apnea
treatments prescribed by doctors to help suffering patients breathe easier
at night.
Once it is surgically implanted in the chest, the Inspire
device stimulates nerves in the neck with mild electric shocks. These shocks
trigger nerve activity that keeps the airway open during sleep.
According to
the New England Journal of Medicine, patients who used Inspire experienced a 68
percent reduction in apnea attacks.
Though Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation isn't yet available
to consumers, there are other sleep apnea treatments to choose from. Some of
the most common examples include:
·
Weight loss, adjustments to your normal position
in bed, and other behavior modifications
·
Specially made oral appliances, such
as a custom splint or mouth guard
·
Surgery to adjust structures in the airway that
block air flow
The continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device is
often considered the “gold standard” treatment for sleep apnea. Unfortunately,
many users find the appliance uncomfortable and difficult to use night after
night, hampering its effectiveness as a treatment option.
Before you decide on any sleep apnea treatment, it's
important to consult a professional who can carefully evaluate your health and
determine which remedy could best restore your good night's rest. Untreated
sleep apnea can be deadly: Don't delay contacting a local sleep physician
or calling 1-866-727-6275 (1-8-NO-PAP-MASK) today to find an
experienced doctor near you.