Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

There are several treatment options for OSA depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may respond to lifestyle changes such as weight loss, and reduction in alcohol, sedatives or sleeping tablets. Some individuals with mild OSA may benefit from a mandibular advancement splint.

Patients with moderate to severe OSA will usually require treatment with continuous positive airways pressure (CPAP). The patient must wear a mask or nasal prongs attached to a machine that delivers a continuous flow of air. The air pressure keeps the upper airway open and prevents obstruction during the night. The effect of this treatment is usually a dramatic reduction in daytime sleepiness and other associated symptoms, together with the abolition of snoring. Many patients say that they feel like a ‘new person’ after starting treatment. In most cases CPAP will be long term and needs to be used every night to prevent the return of symptoms. It is usually well tolerated with minimal side effects which are invariably outweighed by the dramatic health improvements.

If you are diagnosed with OSA at Snore-Tech, the treatment options will be discussed in detail. Should CPAP treatment be required you will be assessed by our respiratory physiotherapist. You will be fitted with a suitable mask and shown how to operate the machine. You will then undergo a one to two week home trial to assess the benefit of treatment in your own environment. At the end of this period you will be reviewed and if the trial has been successful you will be offered a CPAP machine to purchase for long term use.