1. < Sleep Health

Alternatives to CPAP for sleep apnea

Posted by babsellen @babsellen, Feb 26, 2023

Has anyone experienced a less intrusive alternative to a CPAP machine that they would recommend.?My CPAP works for my fairly severe sleep apnea but is uncomfortable enough that I am depressed thinking I will be hooked up to this thing for the rest of my life. I have tried a couple of different mask systems. I can’t use the minimally intrusive nose-only mask because I am a mouth breather.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Sleep Health Support Group.

Julie-Ann G | @jaglover10 | Apr 12, 2023
In reply to @sammy9 "I am having problem using the cpap machine to include causing cardiac symptoms, headache, internal fever,..." + (show)
@sammy9

I am having problem using the cpap machine to include causing cardiac symptoms, headache, internal fever, and sleep disturbance. Now, I am reluctant to wear the cpap equipment since it sets panic attack from previous medical experiences wearing it.
Does anyone have an advice that will help me overcome this trepidation?

Jump to this post

I also have problems using CPAP although mine is mainly due to general discomfort. I recently discovered Bongo Rx. Bongo Rx is a rubber and plastic valve that you place in your nostrils. It is only really good for mild to moderate sleep apnea but works beautifully for me. The pack comes with a range of sizes of devices and includes a carry case and full instructions. I will never go back to a CPAP mask. I sleep through the night now. Hadn’t done that for many months. Sometimes I notice that I need to dry out the breathing device and there is of course a learning curve, as with anything else. Once I got used to it I felt the device was excellent and totally worth it though. If my memory serves the kit is over $200, so not cheap.

REPLY
gloaming | @gloaming | Apr 12, 2023

You might investigate Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).

REPLY
me49 | @me49 | Apr 18, 2023
In reply to @sammy9 "I am having problem using the cpap machine to include causing cardiac symptoms, headache, internal fever,..." + (show)
@sammy9

I am having problem using the cpap machine to include causing cardiac symptoms, headache, internal fever, and sleep disturbance. Now, I am reluctant to wear the cpap equipment since it sets panic attack from previous medical experiences wearing it.
Does anyone have an advice that will help me overcome this trepidation?

Jump to this post

A relative of mine experiences panic attacks in close situations due to cancer treatment where he had to have radiation while wearing a form fitting face mask. You might want to explore hypnosis or Acupuncture to help de rease these panic feelings. I recently started CPAP therapy and the mask gives me that closed in, stifling feeling. I try to focus on the air going in when I breathe. To be honest, when it gets to be too much, I take it off and put it back on after I've slept a few hours. I'm trying to build tolerance because of the benefits of therapy. Best wishes and hope you find a solution that works for you.

REPLY
susanh824 | @susanh824 | Apr 19, 2023

Check out Inspire. It is a surgical implant that is implanted in the right side of your chest. When you are ready to go to sleep. You turn it on with a remote control. It moves the tongue forward into the right position. Many insurance companies pay for it. You can go to their website and find a doctor in your area who is trained on it. I don’t have it yet, but I am in the process.

REPLY
sgboster123 | @sgboster123 | Apr 27, 2023

I have gone to a specialty dentist for sleep apnea mouth guard (upper and lower) that holds the jaw jutted forward to allow room to breathe. It may be better for you. I’m a back sleeper. I hate how I have to work all day to get my jaw back in alignment but it’s better than stopping breathing in the middle of the night 19 xs every hour (and making my husband miserable w snoring noise). Btw I’m 53 and underweight …

REPLY
View MoreView Less
Please sign in or register to post a reply.