Sleep Apnea

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)

CPAP is nearly always the first medical treatment for sleep apnea. With CPAP, you use a breathing device that prevents your airways from closing during sleep.

Research shows that:

• CPAP decreases daytime sleepiness, especially in people who have moderate to severe sleep apnea.^{13, 6} If you still feel sleepy during the day while using CPAP at night, tell your doctor.
• CPAP can lower daytime and nighttime blood pressure.¹⁴

It may take time for you to be comfortable using CPAP. You may find that you want to take off the mask, or you may find it hard to sleep. If you can't get used to CPAP, talk to your doctor. You might be able to try another type of mask or make other adjustments.

Some CPAP devices automatically adjust air pressure or use different air pressures when you breathe in or out. They are easier and more comfortable for some people to use.

If you use CPAP to treat sleep apnea, you need to use it every night. If you don't use it, your symptoms will return right away.

If CPAP isn't working, you may need another sleep study to find out whether your CPAP machine needs to be adjusted. You may also need to think about surgery.

Oral breathing devices

Oral breathing devices reposition your tongue and jaw during sleep, which opens up your airways. They may be used for people who have mild to moderate sleep apnea. They may also be used for people with severe sleep apnea who try CPAP but find out that it does not work for them.