Sleep Apnea Therapy: Effective Treatments When CPAP Doesn't Work

When you have sleep apnea therapy, a range of medical approaches designed to keep your airway open during sleep. It's not just one thing—it's a system of tools, habits, and devices that help you breathe better at night. Many people start with a CPAP machine, but if it feels uncomfortable, leaks air, or just doesn’t stick, you’re not alone. About half of people stop using CPAP within the first year. That’s where other options come in—and they’re not just backups. They’re often better fits.

One of the most effective alternatives is upper airway stimulation, a small implant that senses your breathing and gently stimulates the nerve controlling your tongue to prevent it from blocking your airway. Also known as Inspire therapy, this device is implanted during a minor surgery and works only while you sleep. It doesn’t need a mask, doesn’t require a hose, and has high patient satisfaction rates. It’s not for everyone—only those with moderate to severe sleep apnea who can’t tolerate CPAP—but for the right person, it’s life-changing. Then there are sleep apnea implants, a category that includes devices like tongue-retaining mouthpieces and hypoglossal nerve stimulators. These aren’t sci-fi gadgets—they’re FDA-approved, clinically tested, and covered by many insurance plans when CPAP fails. You might also hear about oral appliances, weight loss, or positional therapy. Each has its place. An oral device might help if your jaw is the issue. Sleeping on your side can cut apnea events by 50% in some cases. And losing even 10% of your body weight can reduce apnea severity dramatically.

What most people don’t realize is that sleep apnea therapy isn’t about finding the perfect device—it’s about finding the right match for your body, your lifestyle, and your goals. Some people need surgery. Others need a combination of therapy and behavior change. The key is knowing your options before you give up. Below, you’ll find real, detailed guides on what works, what doesn’t, and why some treatments get overlooked. Whether you’re tired of your CPAP mask, curious about implants, or just starting to explore solutions, these posts give you the facts—not the marketing.