What Do People with Sleep Apnea Have in Common?

There’s good news about your sleep apnea--you are not alone! The American Sleep Apnea Association estimates that 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. That means there are 21,999,999 people out there, just like you, who are turning to gadgets and devices in the search of better, restful, and health-boosting sleep. Without treatment or intervention, apnea sufferers can experience a myriad of health issues, some of which are potentially life-threatening. Which makes many of these devices literally life-saving technology.

What do people with sleep apnea have in common? Devices. Here are some of the more popular devices sleep apnea patients everywhere are using to address their apnea and find rest and relief.

Top 5 CPAP Accessories

1. Face mask wipes
2. CPAP machine cleaner and sterilizer
3. Petroleum-free facial moisturizer
4. Fleece strap (and hose) covers
5. Contoured CPAP pillow

1. CPAP Machines

A CPAP machine is the clear and obvious choice for anyone who suffers from moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea, plus the device most likely to be prescribed by your physician. As more and more people are being correctly diagnosed with sleep apnea (and not just your everyday snoring), CPAP machines are gaining more popularity as sufferers seek to remedy this serious health issue.

2. Humidifiers

Healthcentral.com suggests that sleep apnea sufferers could also add humidifiers to their arsenal of apnea-fighting weapons. Using a warm-air humidifier at night can promote moisture in the soft palate, potentially lessening the effects of cool, dry air that causes poor airflow in the nasal cavity and soft palate. Humidifiers also make a great sidekick for a CPAP machine, as some users complain of dry sinuses after a full night of use.

3. Position pillows

For some people, CPAP machines are just not an option. In those cases, one of two styles of positional pillows can offer relief by keeping your body resting in a certain position that helps promote open airways. Cervical pillows are contoured pillows that assist the user in sleeping on their side, keeping the head and neck elevated, allowing better airflow, which can reduce the likelihood of the restrictions caused by sleep apnea. For sleepers who absolutely need to sleep on their back, wedge pillows work by significantly elevating the upper half of the body to counteract the effects of gravity on the soft palate.

4. Mouth Guards

The last most common device sleep apnea sufferers turn to for relief is a mouth guard. While this treatment isn’t the best option for severe cases of apnea, it can certainly be a starting point for some people. Known in the industry as mandibular advancement devices (MAD), these custom mouth guards are typically molded by a dentist to fit your mouth and work by drawing the lower jawbone forward, creating a larger space at the back of the throat and allowing greater airflow.

As always, with any level of sleep apnea, it’s best to speak with your doctor about your concerns and follow their advice, especially if a sleep study is recommended. In the meantime, know that there are millions of other people, just like you, who are seeking better sleep and better health through use of incredible new technology and devices!