If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may be looking for ways to relieve your symptoms. Your doctor might have suggested the use of a CPAP device, but for those who have trouble sleeping with things like that, you may want to explore other options. Here are a few of the sleep apnea treatments you should discuss with your doctor.

Position Adjustment

For some people, sleeping on their backs could be the cause of their sleep apnea. You may find that, if you change the position you sleep in, your sleep apnea symptoms may be eased or eliminated. Talk with your doctor about sleep position adjustment and the use of wedges or props to help you stay on your side. This may keep your airway open and eliminate your symptoms.

Tonsil Removal

If enlarged tonsils are a direct cause of your sleep apnea symptoms, your ear, nose, and throat doctor might suggest that you have your tonsils removed to restore your breathing at night. When your tonsils are enlarged, they can obstruct your airway, especially when your body is as relaxed as it becomes when you sleep. After the brief recovery period from this routine surgery, you may notice a significant improvement in your symptoms.

Soft Palate Surgery

In some situations, excess tissue in your soft palate may be to blame for your sleep apnea symptoms. In those cases, you can undergo surgery to remove that excess tissue and prevent it from blocking your airway and restricting airflow when you sleep. Your ear, nose, and throat doctor will remove only what is necessary to ensure stable breathing.

Mouthguard

Certain mouthguards are designed to alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea. These devices are crafted to fit in your mouth and prevent your airway from closing as you sleep. A sleep apnea mouthguard can take some getting used to, and some people may find them uncomfortable. If you want to try this solution, be patient with the device and give it some time to see if you can adjust to it before dismissing it.

Nerve Stimulation

Sometimes, nerve stimulation can resolve sleep apnea symptoms. The nerve stimulation is targeted to the muscle tissue in your airway, keeping it out of the way to ensure clear breathing. Your doctor can insert the stimulation device in an outpatient procedure, making it quick and easy for you.

These are some great alternatives to CPAP devices for sleep apnea treatment. Talk with your doctor today to see what options may help you based on your situation.