The most commonly prescribed treatment for diagnosed sleep apnea is the CPAP machine. CPAP stands for ‘continuous positive airway pressure’. The sleep apnea patient wears a specially designed mask when sleeping that uses pressure to send air flowing through the nasal passages. The influx of air keeps the throat from collapsing during sleep and allows the patient to breathe freely without stopping. CPAP minimizes or eliminates snoring so your partner can also get a better night's rest, and other effects of sleep apnea, such as nasal dryness, headaches and irritated eyes can be reduced or eliminated. Many people find the CPAP difficult to use. With time and patience, however, today’s lighter, quieter CPAP machines have helped thousands of sleep apnea sufferers end their symptoms and sleep peacefully again.

Other treatments include specially designed dental devices that prevent airway obstruction, anti-snoring medications and surgery to prevent obstruction in more severe cases.

Dental Appliances

Most dental appliances are made from acrylic and fit inside your mouth like an athletic mouth guard or braces. Some appliances fit around your head and chin to help reposition your lower jaw. All dental appliances are designed to open your airway, bringing your jaw or tongue forward during sleep to reduce obstruction. Unfortunately, individuals suffering from more severe forms of sleep apnea cannot find relief with these devices.

Side effects from dental appliances include:
• Mouth soreness
• Permanent changes or damage to the jaw, teeth, or mouth
• Build up of saliva
• Nausea

Anti-Snoring Medications

Specialized medication may help curb the effects of sleep apnea or complement more aggressive treatment options when taken before bedtime. Natural plant enzymes and herbs reduce congestion and swelling in the nose and throat and minimize snoring. Special nose drops or nasal sprays, and aromatherapy, have proven beneficial.

Surgery

Surgery can increase airway size by surgically removing excess tissue inside the nose or back of the throat, and may include the removal of tonsils and adenoids. The jaw may be reconstructed to enlarge the upper airway. Surgery certainly carries risks, but for some, this is the best option.

There are things you can do at home to help alleviate your symptoms:

• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid sedatives
• Experiment with sleeping in a new position
• Strategic use of pillows may help
• Lose weight
• Eat a low fat diet

At home remedies are never a substitute for proper medical care.