What is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea?

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is widely regarded as the first-line treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This therapy involves the use of a machine that delivers a steady stream of air through a mask worn during sleep. The continuous airflow helps keep the upper airway open, preventing the apneas and hypopneas characteristic of OSA. By maintaining this positive pressure in the airway, CPAP effectively mitigates the symptoms associated with sleep apnea, including disrupted sleep, daytime fatigue, and cardiovascular risks.

While other treatments, such as oral appliances, medications, and behavioral therapies, can also play a role in managing OSA, CPAP therapy remains the most extensively researched and beneficial option for most patients diagnosed with this condition. Oral appliances may be effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea or for patients who prefer not to use CPAP, but they do not provide the same level of constant airway support. Medications can sometimes assist with symptoms but are not a primary treatment modality for obstructive sleep apnea. Behavioral therapies can help promote better sleep hygiene and weight management, which are beneficial for overall health, yet they do not directly address the airway obstruction that occurs during sleep.

Thus, CPAP therapy is the cornerstone of treatment for managing obstructive