Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes breathing to repeatedly stop or become very shallow during the night. These pauses can happen hundreds of times per night, usually lasting from 10 to 30 seconds each. Many people are unaware that their breathing stops and restarts while sleeping. The condition is common, and an estimated one in four adults between the ages of 30 and 70 live with it.

Because sleep apnea disrupts oxygen supply to the body, it can lead to serious health problems if untreated. People with sleep apnea face a higher risk of high blood pressure, depression, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It also commonly causes fatigue during the day due to poor-quality rest at night.

Fortunately, there are many treatment options, including lifestyle changes, medications, and medical devices. Devices play a key role in keeping the airway open during sleep, reducing symptoms, improving overall health, and ensuring restful sleep.

How Devices Help Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea devices are designed to improve breathing depending on the type of sleep apnea:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
Occurs when something blocks the airway at night, making it difficult to breathe. Most people with sleep apnea have this form.

Central sleep apnea (CSA)
Happens when the brain does not send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing, leading to repeated pauses during sleep. This type is less common.

Devices help by:

  • Keeping the airway open during sleep

  • Preventing the tongue or jaw from blocking airflow

  • Strengthening tongue muscles during the day to reduce nighttime obstruction

  • Monitoring breathing to ensure the airway remains open

Types of Devices

Depending on your diagnosis, your healthcare provider may recommend one or more of the following devices.

Positive airway pressure (PAP) machines
PAP machines use pressurized air to keep the airway open at night. The main types include:

  • Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP): Provides a steady flow of air throughout the night

  • Adjustable positive airway pressure (APAP): Changes airflow levels automatically based on breathing patterns

  • Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP): Uses different pressure levels for inhaling and exhaling

These machines require wearing a mask connected to a tube, which delivers air pressure. Comfort and correct settings are key, so adjustments may be needed.

Oral appliances
These non-electrical devices reposition the jaw or tongue to prevent airway blockage. Two common types are:

  • Mandibular repositioning mouthpieces: Hold the jaw forward to keep the airway open

  • Tongue retaining devices: Hold the tongue in place during sleep

A dental sleep medicine specialist should custom-fit these devices for effectiveness and safety.

Stimulation devices
Two FDA-approved devices provide electrical stimulation to improve airway function:

  • eXciteOSA® mouthpiece: Worn during the day for short sessions to strengthen tongue muscles and prevent nighttime obstruction

  • Inspire® upper airway stimulation device: Surgically implanted to monitor breathing and stimulate nerves to keep the airway open at night

Positional therapy devices
Some people only experience apnea when sleeping on their back. Devices such as belts, pillows, or vibration-based sensors can encourage side sleeping or alert the user when rolling onto the back. Examples include the Zzoma pillow, Night Shift Sleep Positioner, and Philips NightBalance device.

How Effective Are Sleep Apnea Devices?

PAP machines are the most widely used and effective devices. They may cause side effects like nasal congestion or throat dryness, but they significantly reduce long-term risks such as heart disease and stroke. Research shows PAP therapy improves daytime alertness, lowers blood pressure, and reduces sleep apnea severity.

Positional therapy devices are also effective for people whose symptoms depend on sleep position. Studies show they reduce apnea episodes, especially when combined with PAP therapy.

Stimulation devices are relatively new but show promising results, with early trials reporting up to 50% improvement in breathing patterns.

Oral appliances are best suited for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea. While not as effective as PAP therapy for severe cases, they are better than no treatment and can improve quality of sleep for many patients.

How to Use Sleep Apnea Devices

Each device works differently, so proper instruction and follow-up care are essential.

PAP machines
These may require an adjustment period. Work with your provider to set comfortable pressure levels. If the device has a humidifier, always use distilled water to avoid harmful particles.

Oral appliances
Must be custom-fitted by a dental sleep specialist for safe and effective results.

Stimulation devices
Require either a prescription or surgical implantation. Your provider will give specific usage instructions.

Positional therapy devices
Often available in stores and come with instructions. Ask your provider for additional guidance to incorporate them into your routine.

Things to Consider

When choosing a sleep apnea device, the most important factors are comfort, safety, and effectiveness. If a device is too uncomfortable, speak with your provider about alternatives.

Other things to keep in mind include:

  • Portability, especially if you travel frequently

  • Noise level of the device

  • Size and fit (such as mask coverage or oral appliance placement)

  • Accessories that improve comfort and ease of use

  • Your usual sleep position, which can influence the type of mask or device chosen

A Quick Review

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that causes repeated pauses in breathing at night. A variety of devices can help keep the airway open, improve symptoms, and reduce health risks.

Options include PAP machines, oral appliances, stimulation devices, and positional therapy devices. Not all devices work for every type of sleep apnea, so working with a healthcare provider is the best way to find the right treatment for your needs.