Other OSA Therapies
Although CPAP therapy is highly recommended for people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), many look for alternative treatments. We understand this concern and provide an individualised plan that suits the comfort level of people. Our sleep clinics in Gold Coast are known for helping patients find the best treatment option for their condition. These include positional therapy and EPAP, which do not require wearing a mask while sleeping but use other methods to reduce the symptoms of OSA.
Positional Therapy
As the name suggests, positional therapy is based on changing the sleeping position. Most people have the habit of sleeping on their back, known as the supine position. However, those suffering from sleep-related disorders like OSA and snoring may need to avoid sleeping on their backs. Positional therapy is used when the symptoms are caused or worsen due to the supine sleeping position. Sleep physicians recommend non-supine sleeping without rolling back to the supine position in sleep with the help of certain objects or devices. The two types of positional therapies commonly prescribed by experts after analysing the sleep test include Nightshift and SlumberBUMP.
Nightshift Positional Therapy
The nightshift positional therapy involves wearing a device around the neck or chest to prevent sleeping on the back. The device vibrates gently if the person comes back to the supine position in sleep and ensures they maintain their posture throughout the night. It is a safe and tested method for lessening the symptoms of OSA and preventing snoring by keeping the airways open. The device keeps track of the sleeping position and provides detailed reports that the practitioner can analyse for a customised treatment. The vibrations start after the wearer has fallen asleep and do not wake them up since they are mild.
SlumberBUMP Positional Therapy
SlumberBUMP is another proven positional therapy device with an inflatable bump attached to a belt that must be worn over the chest while sleeping. It is used to treat mild to moderate OSA as an alternative to CPAP therapy. The bump over the belt does not let the wearer roll onto their back and helps them sleep on the side through the night. The device is made from breathable materials and can be adjusted to fit comfortably. They are lightweight and can be easily packed and carried along when travelling. It can be combined with CPAP therapy if the sleep doctors recommend it.
EPAP Therapy
Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure, or EPAP therapy, is used to treat OSA with the help of a device that is worn over the nostrils. It is compact and does not require charging or electricity support. The EPAP device has two valves that are placed over each nostril and allow normal inhalation but induce a positive pressure while exhaling. It keeps the airways open while exhaling and prevents lapses in breathing. EPAP therapy can be used for people with mild to moderate OSA and can be used over a period to reduce sleep-related problems. Sleep doctors at Rise Sleep recommend opti-pillow and Bongos EPAP therapies for effective treatment.
Opti-Pillow EPAP Therapy
Opti-Pillow EPAP therapy involves wearing a nasal pillow mask that creates positive pressure while exhaling. The safe and comfortable device allows the user to inhale normally but builds pressure during exhalation, preventing the upper airway from collapsing. The pressure built by the mask can be adjusted to make the wearer comfortable. It can be used for mild to moderate OSA, and its small size and convenient usage make it easy to pack for travelling. The device helps reduce upper airway obstruction, which can alleviate snoring and OSA symptoms. It is considered convenient by many users because it does not require any big machines or tubes.
Bongo Rx EPAP Therapy
Bongo Rx is an EPAP device that helps to enjoy deep sleep without breathing lapses. The device is a small-sized CPAP alternative to be inserted into the nostrils and stays in place with the help of silicone sealing beads. It allows convenient inhalation with the valves opening completely to take in a full breath and creates pressure during exhalation. The valves close during exhalation and redirect air through special vents to build back pressure that keeps the airways open. It is perfect for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea and is most convenient to use. It allows sleeping in any position and does not create any noise or discomfort.
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