Micro-CPAP devices aren’t yet FDA-approved, and research on their effectiveness is limited. But some makers claim these CPAP machine alternatives can help with obstructive sleep apnea.
One treatment method for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP).
Still, CPAP machines aren’t foolproof, and some users may find the masks and hose attachments difficult to sleep with.
In response to this type of consumer feedback, some companies have introduced alternative micro-CPAP machines that supposedly offer the same benefits for OSA treatment — with fewer parts.
While these miniature and less invasive versions of CPAP machines may help with snoring and some airflow, their effectiveness as a treatment option for OSA hasn’t been confirmed.
CPAP therapy doesn’t work for everyone with obstructive forms of sleep apnea.
A 2021 systematic review claims that the adherence rate (nightly use) to CPAP machines is approximately
The hope is that miniature versions of CPAP therapy, which use micro blowers attached to your nose only, will help increase adherence to it.
To date, micro-CPAP machines aren’t FDA-approved. Yet the makers of these devices claim they have benefits similar to that of a traditional CPAP, while also offering the following:
- Reduced noise: Traditional CPAP works with a mask that’s attached to an electric machine via hoses. A micro-CPAP, which isn’tattached to a machine, will likely make less noise while you try to sleep. The question is whether it’s still as effective for treating OSA.
- Fewer sleep disruptions: Being connected to a CPAP machine can make it difficult to move around in your sleep, causing you to wake up several times at night. Micro-CPAPs are cordless, which could create fewer sleep disruptions.
- Decreased snoring: The makers of Airing, a cordless and maskless micro-CPAP, claim that their devices eliminate snoring. But it’s important to note that Airing’s micro-CPAP device is still in development and not yet available to the public.
Airing is the company behind the first micro-CPAP device. It attaches to your nose with buds, keeping it in place while creating pressure in your airways.
However, clinical evidence to support micro-CPAP machines for sleep apnea is lacking.
Is Airing an effective treatment for sleep apnea?
Airing’s claims surrounding decreased snoring — or the complete elimination of it — require further scientific evidence.
Micro-CPAP devices don’t create continuous airway pressure like traditional CPAP machines do. This makes them ineffective for treating sleep apnea, according to Rochester Regional Health.
Until these devices are clinically tested, it’s difficult to determine whether a micro-CPAP is just as effective as a traditional CPAP.
Are Airing’s micro-CPAP devices available to the public?
The company reportedly started raising money for funding, yet it hasn’t been able to obtain FDA approval.
According to Airing’s website, the company believes the approval process will be abbreviated because the device doesn’t “provide a new treatment.”
If left untreated, OSA can become a life threatening condition.
A doctor will confirm OSA if you exhibit symptoms such as daytime drowsiness and mood disorders. They will also likely order tests that measure your air flow and heart rate during sleep.
Traditional treatment for OSA can include one or more of the following options:
CPAP
Traditional CPAP therapy is a first-line treatment for OSA.
CPAP works by using air pressure via hoses attached between a machine and a mask to help open your airways. This helps you breathe while you’re asleep and ensures that you get enough airflow despite blocked airways.
Surgery
Surgery is a last-resort treatment when CPAP therapy doesn’t work.
While many surgical options for sleep apnea are available, a doctor will choose a procedure that aims to open the airways.
Some options include:
- tonsillectomy (removal of your tonsils)
- tongue reduction
- stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve (the nerve that controls tongue movement)
- palatal implants (implants in the soft palate of the roof of your mouth)
- uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (reconstructive throat tissue surgery)
- tracheostomy (neck airway-opening surgery)
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes can complement your OSA treatment plan.
A 2022 randomized clinical trial found that weight loss and lifestyle intervention in Spanish men with obesity helped
What’s more, making positive lifestyle changes can also improve your health-related quality of life.
Your doctor will likely recommend the following:
- regular exercise
- quitting smoking, or trying a smoking cessation program
- avoiding the use of sleeping pills and sedatives
- nasal decongestants, if needed
- a humidifier for your bedroom
- sleeping on your side
- avoiding alcohol
Do you need a prescription for a micro-CPAP device?
Micro-CPAP machines are available over the counter, meaning you won’t need a prescription.
But traditional CPAP machines require a doctor’s evaluation and a prescription to get the device.
How much does a micro-CPAP device cost?
Compared to a traditional CPAP machine — which can cost between $500 and $1,000 out of pocket — micro-CPAP machines can cost as little as $30.
However, insurance coverage for a traditional CPAP machine is often very good, and your provider might cover the cost completely. Check with your health insurance provider to see what a CPAP machine will cost you.
The Airing micro-CPAP machine isn’t available to the public yet, so its cost isn’t set.
What other treatment alternatives are there?
Which option you choose for your OSA depends on your specific needs and your doctor’s recommendations.
BiPAP or APAP therapies are other alternatives.
While Airing is still working to get its micro-CPAP devices approved by the FDA, imitation devices are available online.
It’s important to follow a doctor’s treatment plan, especially if you are undergoing therapy for OSA.
Curing sleep apnea involves a combination of treatment and lifestyle changes — something that no device can offer alone.