CPAP works well for many people, but not everyone can tolerate it. The good news is there are real alternatives for treating obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. The right option depends on the severity of your sleep apnea, your anatomy, and what’s gotten in the way of CPAP so far.
People come looking for CPAP alternatives for all kinds of reasons: mask discomfort, claustrophobia, dry mouth, trouble sleeping with a hose, partner concerns, or simply struggling to wear it consistently enough to feel a difference. Untreated sleep apnea is more than an annoyance, so it’s worth finding a treatment you’ll actually use.
A CPAP alternative may be worth exploring if you have:
Your provider will help match the right alternative to your situation.
There’s no single best alternative, but here are the most common options:
A reset on CPAP itself: sometimes a new mask, pressure, or auto-titrating machine is the real answer
Recovery depends on the option you choose. Oral appliance therapy has essentially no recovery and starts working the night you wear it. Inspire therapy and surgical options involve a recovery period and a longer ramp to full effect. Your provider will walk through what’s realistic for each.
Each alternative has its own risk profile. In general, possible considerations include:
Your provider will go through the benefits and risks of each option that’s right for you.
If you need help deciding whether virtual care is right for you, our team is here to assist.
If you need help deciding whether virtual care is right for you, our team is here to assist.
