Treatment options for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) results form a mechanically blocked airway passage. ResMed is committed to bringing people with OSA a better quality of life, by offering a number of comfortable and effective treatment options.

Three forms of Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy include CPAP, APAP and bilevel. Other solutions include:

• Oral appliance therapy – Mandibular Repositioning Devices (MRD)
• Adaptive- servo ventilation

Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy

Positive airway pressure therapy is the most effective way to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. By creating a “pneumatic splint” for the upper airway, PAP therapy prevents the soft tissues of the upper airway from narrowing and collapsing. Pressurised air is sent from a therapy device through air tubing and a mask to the upper airway.

Positive airway pressure therapy can be delivered in a number of ways:

• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP): pressurised air at one fixed pressure.
• Automatic positive airway pressure (APAP) therapy: automatically varying air pressure, which changes pressures based on your own breathing.
• Bilevel therapy: two levels of air pressure that are set to coincide with your inspiratory and expiratory efforts, which may be prescribed by doctors to patients who have difficulty following other treatments.

Find out more about the ResMed devices that use CPAP, APAP and bilevel therapy.

Risks of untreated OSA

Untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) can lead to a host of complications and serious health risks. Consult a doctor to find the right treatment for you to diminish associated risks. Learn more about the benefits of treating OSA.