Feeling Exhausted to Inspired: Discover a New Solution for Sleepless Nights
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-sleeping-in-bed-near-smartphone-4473864/
Is CPAP the only answer to a good night’s sleep?
The answer is no! Why is it that when you hear the term “sleep apnea” a CPAP machine comes to mind? Maybe because, since the 1980s, CPAP machines have been the go-to treatment method, which can lead to the belief that it's the only way to manage sleep apnea. In 2012, a groundbreaking solution, referred to as Inspire, was introduced. It has revolutionized the sleep apnea world with a 95-97% compliance rate among users. Let’s explore…you may feel “inspired” to try something new.
What is Inspire and How Does It Work?
Inspire is an implantable device placed in your chest. It has two leads: one that wraps around your hypoglossal nerve (which controls tongue movement) and another that senses your breathing. Together, they signal your tongue to tense up and open your airway.
Here’s a simple rundown of the procedure.
1. An incision (about 2 inches) is made in the upper neck to access the hypoglossal nerve.
2. A lead is placed around the nerve.
3. Another incision is made in your chest, and the Inspire device and second lead are implanted.
4. The two leads are connected to the device.
Inspire has proven less challenging than other sleep surgeries, like tonsil removal, palate shortening (called UPPP), or tongue reduction. The recovery is much quicker. Most patients heal within four to five days, compared to longer and more difficult recoveries from other procedures. Research has proven that it is also significantly more effective as well, with sleep apnea control rates of 85-90%, compared to 50-70% for older surgeries.
One month after the surgery, the implant is activated. Using a remote control, you power it on 30 minutes before you go to bed, giving you time to settle in before it begins working. If you wake up during the night, you can pause the device and reactivate it when you’re ready to sleep again. It will once again wait 30 minutes before starting.
If you are curious about sleep apnea or this is new to you, read on and watch my videos to answer your questions like —
What is sleep apnea?
What is a CPAP machine, and what does it do?
What is a sleep study?
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is when your breathing pauses during sleep. Your body wakes you up to resume breathing, making it hard to get a restful night's sleep and putting stress on your body.
There are two types of sleep apnea.
Central Sleep Apnea: You stop breathing at night and your body doesn’t try to breathe.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea: When your body tries to breathe, but an obstruction in your airway prevents air from entering your lungs.
What is a CPAP Machine?
CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, is a well-known and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. A machine creates pressured air and is connected to a mask. The mask is positioned over your mouth and nose and blows purified air through the tube and into your airways, keeping them open so you can continue breathing.
For maximum effectiveness, the device must always be used while sleeping, including naps and during travel. Unfortunately, 40-60% of patients struggle to use it consistently for various reasons. For those who can’t tolerate a CPAP, there are alternative treatments, like Inspire.
What is a sleep study?
Before determining a treatment option, we must first understand the severity of your sleep apnea. If left untreated, sleep apnea can put extra stress on your heart and lungs, increase the risk of stroke, and cause other health issues. A sleep study is essential for diagnosis and determining the most appropriate treatment.
I often recommend a sleep study to patients who snore or struggle with getting a good night’s rest. If you’re dreaming of a good night’s sleep, let’s schedule your assessment. I offer sleep study devices that are easy to use in the comfort of your own home.
I performed a sleep study myself to better understand the process. To learn more, check out the results of my personal experience here.
If you are concerned that you may be affected by sleep apnea, book an appointment with me to discuss and schedule your sleep study today!
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