Sleep apnoea treatments

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), also known as sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS), is a disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the upper airway during sleep.

This causes breathing interruptions, drops in blood oxygen saturation, and micro-awakenings that affect sleep quality. The consequences of untreated OSA include respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic problems.

Effective types of treatment

OXIGEN salud provides innovative and effective treatments for managing sleep apnea. The main therapeutic options are detailed below:

1. Continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP, APAP, and BPAP)

Positive airway pressure therapy is the most common and effective option for treating OSA. It consists of a device that delivers a constant flow of air through a mask and prevents airway collapse.

• CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): provides a constant, steady flow of air. It's ideal for most cases of moderate to severe OSA.
• APAP (Automatic CPAP): adjusts air pressure in real time, adapting to the patient's needs throughout the night. 
• BPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure): delivers different pressures during inhalation and exhalation. It is especially useful in complex cases of obstructive apnea, as well as in severe OSA that does not respond well to CPAP.

2. Positional sleep therapy accessories and devices

In addition to positive pressure equipment, there are alternative solutions such as positioning devices. Their purpose is to prevent patients with positional OSA from sleeping supine. Avoiding this position during sleep can be a very effective treatment for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.

These accessories are recommended under medical supervision.

3. Advanced Options: Surgery and Mandibular Advancement Devices

In selected cases, and when traditional methods are not sufficient, surgical treatments or customized oral appliances that reposition the mandible to maintain an open airway may be considered.

Mandibular advancement devices are the main alternative to positive airway therapy. They consist of a prosthesis that advances the mandible, keeps the upper airway open, and reduces its collapse during sleep. In selected cases, and when traditional methods are not sufficient, customized surgical treatments may be considered.

4. Myofunctional therapy

It involves performing a series of exercises to strengthen the muscles of the tongue, lips, oropharynx, and facial muscles. By increasing the muscle tone of these structures, airway collapse during sleep is reduced.

5. Hypoglossal nerve electrostimulators

It involves the invasive or subcutaneous implantation of a neurostimulator, which delivers an electrical current to the hypoglossal nerve during inspiration to increase the tone of the genioglossus muscle and prevent upper airway collapse. It is a novel technique that requires exploration and research.

Treatment benefits

Proper sleep apnea treatments not only improve the quality of sleep, but also have a positive impact on overall health by:

• Reduce the risk of hypertension, heart attacks, and strokes.
• Improve cognitive ability and memory.
• Increase energy and reduce daytime sleepiness.
• Help control metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes.

Practical tips to maximize results

• CPAP Adherence: it is essential to use the device every night as recommended by your doctor.
• Sleep hygiene: maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding alcohol, and not smoking significantly improves treatment outcomes.
• Equipment maintenance: regular cleaning of masks and tubing ensures greater effectiveness and durability of the device.

Diagnosis and follow-up

Treatment should always be prescribed and supervised by a specialist. At OXIGEN salud, we have a multidisciplinary team that performs sleep studies and supports patients throughout the process, adjusting therapies as needed.

If you think you may have sleep apnea or would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact us. Sleeping well means living better.

Sleep apnoea resources