Get Better Sleep Without a CPAP
A new alternative to CPAP.
Now there is an option for sleep apnea patients who do not want to rely on a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) mask. Inspire® therapy is an innovative approach that eliminates sleep apnea, improves a patient’s quality of sleep and significantly reduces snoring.
A quick procedure could free you of a CPAP
Inspire works inside your body while you sleep. It’s a small device placed during a minor, outpatient procedure where a thin wire is installed below the skin. During sleep it delivers mild stimulation to key muscles in the airway, helping the patient breathe better and sleep more peacefully. The device is controlled by a remote, turned on before bed, that continually monitors breathing patterns.
Do you have sleep apnea?
Not only does sleep apnea affect your rest, but it also is a significant risk factor for many long-term problems like stroke and heart attack. It could be a concern for you if:
- You wake up in the middle of the night gasping or choking for air.
- Your spouse notes that you stop breathing in your sleep.
- You feel exhausted even after a seemingly full night’s sleep (typically 7-9 hours for adults).
- Your throat and mouth are very dry when you wake up.
- You are restless throughout the night.
- You snore very loudly.
- You lack energy throughout the day and have lost interest in activities you typically enjoy.
- You’re irritable and have an inability to focus.
- You’ve gained weight.
Are you a candidate for Inspire?
The best candidates for Inspire are those who have moderate-to-severe sleep apnea and who are unable to tolerate CPAP. It can be a great alternative for patients who are claustrophobic, or unable to get used to the CPAP machine.
Is snoring a big concern for you?
Inspire can be a good option for moderate-to-severe sleep apnea patients who also snore. In fact, 90 percent of patients report no snoring or soft snoring when Inspire is in use. For patients with mild sleep apnea, there are other excellent CPAP alternatives available, like custom-fit dental appliances. Losing weight, sleeping on your side and avoiding sleeping on the back can also help reduce snoring.
Getting good, refreshing sleep significantly improves quality of life. There are now more innovative treatment approaches available for sleep apnea than ever before. If you’re searching for better rest, talk to your primary care physician or consult a sleep medicine physician about your sleep concerns. To learn more about Inspire therapy, go to ChesapeakeRegional.com/Inspire and to see if it might be right for you, call 757-231-9137 with questions or to make an appointment.
Dr. Soham Sheth is a board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine physician. He is on the medical staff at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center and works with the Sleep Center at Chesapeake.