Sleep clinician discussing alternatives to CPAP with a patient

Sleep Apnea Treatments Without CPAP

Finding CPAP difficult does not mean you have run out of options. Some people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can benefit from other treatments. The right choice depends on your diagnosis, symptoms and the severity of the condition. Illustration: discussing sleep symptoms and treatment options. This guide explains options to discuss with a sleep specialist.…

Sleep clinician discussing alternatives to CPAP with a patient

Sleep Apnea and High Blood Pressure: What Helps?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can contribute to high blood pressure. Repeated airway obstruction, oxygen drops and arousals place stress on the cardiovascular system. Managing OSA can help, but it does not guarantee normal blood pressure or replace prescribed hypertension treatment. Illustration: discussing sleep symptoms and treatment options. How can OSA affect blood pressure? During OSA,…

Sleep clinician discussing alternatives to CPAP with a patient

Nasal Sprays and Sleep Apnea: What They Can and Cannot Do

A blocked nose can make a difficult night feel worse, but choosing a nasal spray is not the same as choosing treatment for sleep apnea. The useful starting question is: are you trying to relieve nasal congestion, reduce snoring, or manage a diagnosed breathing disorder? Illustration: discussing sleep symptoms and treatment options. Can a nasal…

Sleep clinician discussing alternatives to CPAP with a patient

Newly Suspected Sleep Apnea: Assessment and Treatment

Newly noticed snoring or breathing pauses are a reason to seek assessment, not proof of an “early stage” of sleep apnea. A recent diagnosis can be mild, moderate or severe. The treatment decision depends on the assessment, symptoms and personal circumstances. Illustration: discussing sleep symptoms and treatment options. Early recognition is different from mild disease…