Is Inspire Therapy the Right Fit for You?

Without treatment, sleep apnea can put a lot of stress on the heart and lungs and could have serious complications. But, thanks to groundbreaking research, sleep apnea patients might see some new treatment options in the future.

There is no known cure for sleep apnea, but there are a few options available on the market. However, the most popular option is the CPAP machine. A CPAP, which stands for continuous positive airway pressure, ensures that the patient's airways are not obstructed by blowing a continuous stream of air into the airways. But, while effective, the machines can be a little irritating and uncomfortable.

Depending on the severity of the disorder, some patients can use a small mask that covers their nose. Other patients aren’t so lucky, and have to wear a full-size mask that covers both the nose and mouth. Regardless of the mask's size, it is connected to the unit with tubes and wires. This machine doesn't exactly scream cozy.

Mobility is also an issue with CPAP machines. Typically, traditional CPAP machines are large units that sit on the bedside table and need to be plugged in.  They are hardly portable and patients who require the use of the CPAP machine are often forced to choose between lugging the machine with them when they travel or risk sleeping without it.

There are portable units that are starting to hit the marketplace, but portable CPAP machines are still a relatively new creation.

The number of patients that require the use of CPAP machines is growing. But this also means that the number of clinical trials and research projects for new treatment options are also growing.

Recently a new and cutting-edge treatment option has started its clinical trials. And so far, this new option, Inspire Therapy, looks promising.

What is Inspire Therapy?

Inspire is a complete system that monitors a patient's natural breathing. The machine is designed to intuitively deliver stimulation to the airway muscles and keep them open while the patient is asleep.  The entire system consists of three parts: a generator, a small lead sensor to monitor breathing and the lead that stimulates the airways.  A small handheld remote is used to turn the system ‘on’ before bed and ‘off’ after waking up.

Read on to learn more about the benefits of Inspire Therapy.