Detection:
You can now determine whether you are at risk for OSA with DROWZLE^®, a software program that uses your smartphone to collect symptom data and analyze sleep breathing sounds and patterns. DROWZLE works from your nightstand and doesn’t interrupt your natural sleep habits, so it captures an accurate picture of your sleep breathing sounds and gaps. Test overnight and receive a comprehensive report in the morning.

If your diagnosis confirms the presence of OSA – particularly moderate to severe -- you will benefit from treatment. Your doctor may prescribe continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, which is extremely effective at keeping your airway open during sleep.

CPAP machines and masks have changed significantly in recent years. Machines are smaller, more portable, and virtually silent. Digital technology has made CPAP less disruptive and much easier to use, while new mask designs and nasal pillow options make treatment more comfortable, without claustrophobic feelings. In fact, you hardly know you are wearing some of the new nasal products. The advances in CPAP provide a more restful night’s sleep for both you and your bed partner.

A new approach, called Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT), repositions the jaw with a custom-fitted mouthpiece. This holds the lower jaw in a forward position during sleep to keep the upper airway open, preventing apneas and reducing snoring. OAT devices also prevent teeth grinding in sleep – a condition called bruxism – which commonly occurs in people with sleep apnea.

Oral appliances are mechanical devices that resemble a retainer and are worn during sleep. They must be custom-fitted to the individual by a dentist with special training. Finding the optimal setting to keep the airway open requires gradual adjustments, which occur at follow-up visits over the first few weeks. Most insurance plans cover oral appliances for sleep apnea.