Hypopnea medical therapy

The most common treatment for hypopnea is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). CPAP is a treatment in which the patient wears a mask over the nose and/or mouth. An air blower forces air through the upper airway. The air pressure is adjusted so that it is just enough to avoid the upper airway tissues from collapsing during sleep but apnea episodes return when CPAP is stopped or it is used improperly. For people with neuromuscular disorders the most common treatment is the use of BIPAP or other non-invasive ventilation.

Mild hypopnea can often be treated by losing weight or by avoiding sleeping on one’s back. Also quitting smoking, refusal from alcohol, sedatives and soporifics before sleep can be quite efficient. Certain physical exercises that strengthen gullet muscles also bring some results in hypopnea treatment.

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