The gold standard for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a CPAP (or continuous positive airway pressure) machine which is worn at night. But for 40% of those diagnosed with OSA, for various reasons, whether it be the face mask, the pressure, or the tubing, they can’t tolerate CPAP.
For these patients, there is another treatment option – called Inspire — a small, FDA-approved implanted device that works with a patient’s natural breathing process to treat sleep apnea.
The small, pacemaker-sized device is implanted by an Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor during an outpatient procedure. Once implanted the patient can turn the device on and off with a remote control. Mild stimulation to the tongue allows the airway to remain open during sleep, keeping oxygen flowing naturally. Patients can hit pause on the remote if they have to get up to use the bathroom or get a drink during the night.
Inspire therapy is for people who meet the following requirements:
The team at Deborah’s Institute of Sleep Medicine can discuss Inspire, as well as other treatment options, for your obstructive sleep apnea.
Regular poor sleep puts you at risk of serious medical conditions, including obesity, heart disease and diabetes – and it shortens your life expectancy. It’s now clear that a solid night’s sleep is essential for a long and healthy life.