Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is often associated with snoring and interrupted breathing, but what many don’t realize is that the tongue can be a major culprit. If you or someone you know struggles with CPAP therapy, understanding the role of the tongue in sleep apnea can help uncover new treatment options.
How Your Tongue Affects Your Breathing at Night
During sleep, the muscles in your body naturally relax—including those in your throat and tongue. For some people, the tongue relaxes too much, falling backward and blocking the airway. This leads to repeated breathing interruptions, oxygen drops, and fragmented sleep. Over time, these disruptions can contribute to daytime fatigue, cardiovascular issues, and metabolic disorders.
Certain tongue characteristics can indicate a higher risk for sleep apnea. For example, a larger tongue or scalloped edges may suggest airway obstruction. This guide provides more insight into how your tongue’s appearance might be linked to sleep apnea.
What If CPAP Doesn’t Work for You?
CPAP therapy remains the gold standard for treating sleep apnea, but not everyone can tolerate the mask, air pressure, or associated discomfort. The good news? There are alternatives.
One option is Inspire® therapy, a small implantable device that works inside the body to prevent airway collapse. Instead of pushing air through a mask, Inspire gently stimulates the nerve that controls tongue movement. This keeps the airway open, allowing for natural breathing throughout the night.
For those seeking non-invasive solutions, there are also oral appliances designed to reposition the tongue and jaw to improve airflow. If CPAP isn’t working for you, exploring these CPAP alternatives might be the next step toward better sleep.
A Personalized Approach to Sleep Apnea Treatment
OSA isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is its treatment. If you struggle with CPAP or suspect your tongue may be contributing to your sleep apnea, talk to a sleep specialist about personalized options. From medical devices like Inspire to oral appliances, solutions are available to help you breathe easier and sleep better.