I have sleep apnea. While it it is helpful I don’t enjoy it very much. Plus, my kids are absolutely terrified of it. They won’t come near the room and they scream when I turn it on.
While I know they’ll adjust, I’m neither my wife nor I are crazy about it either. Is there an alternative or should I just start saving up for therapy for the kids now? They’re going to grow up thinking I am Darth Vader.
Mark A.
Dear Mark,
Sleep Apnea can cause a great deal of problems. Most people get a CPAP machine for the treatment because it’s been the standard treatment for years.
However, they’re bulky and loud, as your family has noticed. Fortunately there are alternatives for something which makes you sound like Darth Vader.
If You Hate Your CPAP
While there is a great alternative, I don’t want you to stop using your CPAP in the meantime.
Sleep Apnea means you are not breathing in intervals throughout the night. The stress this puts on your heart can lead to stroke and other life-threatening problems.
I’d like to suggest you see your dentist and ask him about an anterior positioning splint. This is a simple orthotic device which re-positions your jaw in such as way that the back of your throat is no longer obstructed.
It’s silent and about the size of a mouth guard. You’ll find it much more comfortable.
Even better, they’re super easy to transport if you have a business trip or family vacation.
This blog is brought to you by Auburn Dentist Dr. Raymond Bolt.