[3][4] Physicians may also use CPAP to treat hypoxia and decrease the work of breathing in infants with acute infectious processes such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia or for those with collapsible airways such as in tracheomalacia.

Tongue retaining devices keep the tongue forward so that it does not block the airway. These devices also help reduce the number of apnea events experienced, although studies have shown issues with compliance. People tend to prefer mandibular advancement devices over tongue retaining devices.

Behavioral changes such as switching your sleep position and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage sleep apnea.

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While lifestyle changes like exercise, weight loss and modified sleeping positions can be helpful, these modifications may not be enough to improve moderate to severe OSA on their own, and an alternative treatment like a custom oral appliance might be suggested to open the airway.

OSA is a sleep disorder where your upper airway—nasal cavities, oral cavity, throat, and voice box—narrows and restricts your breathing, causing reduced airflow and lower blood oxygen levels.

Reducing alcohol and tobacco use may be helpful for lessening the symptoms of OSA. Drinking alcohol before bed can worsen OSA, promote snoring, and depress the central nervous system.

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The University of Kansas Health System continues to be one of the top 5 hospitals in the nation that offers Inspire sleep apnea treatment. Our team collaborates with registered polysomnographic technologists who perform sophisticated sleep studies to help doctors provide the best care.

Surgery often alters the shape and position of the soft palate, which is the rear portion of the roof of the mouth. UPPP is the most common type of surgery used to treat OSA.

Although both weight loss and CPAP treatment are considered effective ways of reducing OSA symptoms, research is conflicting.

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Weight loss surgery isn’t for everyone, but it can be an effective solution. The American Thoracic Society recommends gastric bypass surgery in people with a body mass index (BMI)ⓘ Body mass index (BMI) measures body fat based on height and weight. of 35 or higher to improve OSA. A recent study showed bariatric surgery, which is a procedure removing the portion of your stomach producing the hormone ghrelin—which signals hunger to your brain—improved OSA and caused remission in 65% of patients. [10]Oweidat K, et al. Sleep and Breathing. May 5, 2023.

Once you have Inspire therapy, you may still be able to have an MRI. It is best to discuss your options with your doctor if an MRI is suggested. Alternative imaging technologies such as CT, ultrasound or others may be most suitable for you.