The Inspire Sleep Apnea device is an FDA-approved, surgically implanted device designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Unlike CPAP, which relies on air pressure to keep your airway open, the Inspire device stimulates key muscles in the airway to ensure it stays open while you sleep. It’s a small, discreet device that works in sync with your body’s natural breathing patterns.
What Is the Inspire Medical Device?
The Inspire implant is a surgical device that treats obstructive sleep apnea by using electrical pulses to keep the airway open while sleeping. Unlike CPAP, which relies on air pressure to keep your airway open, the Inspire device stimulates key muscles in the airway to ensure it stays open while you sleep
When the patient sleeps, the system detects their breathing patterns and gently stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to keep the airway open, preventing apneic events.
Inspire - How It Works?
Inspire is an alternative to CPAP for people who can’t tolerate or don’t want to use a mask. The system is operated with a handheld remote control, which the user activates before sleep. Once turned on, the device monitors the user’s breathing and stimulates the nerve as needed throughout the night.
Unlike CPAP machines, which rely on forced air and can cause discomfort, Inspire Sleep works internally to maintain a clear airway without noise, external masks, or tubes.
Who Is the Inspire Sleep Apnea Device For?
The Inspire Sleep Device is typically recommended for individuals who:
- Have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea.
- Have not found success with CPAP therapy.
- Are not significantly overweight (as weight can impact the device’s effectiveness).
- Do not have complete airway collapse during sleep.
Who is a Candidate for Inspire Therapy?
Inspire Sleep Apnea Therapy is typically recommended for patients who:
- Have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
- Are unable to tolerate or get effective results from CPAP.
- You must also be over 18 years old and have a body mass index (BMI) of under 35.
- Do not have significant central sleep apnea (CSA).
Benefits of the Inspire Sleep Device
- Comfortable and Discreet:Â Unlike CPAP masks, which can be bulky and uncomfortable, the Inspire device is implanted under the skin, making it invisible to others and hidden during sleep.
- Improved Quality of Life:Â Many patients report a significant improvement in sleep quality, daytime alertness, and overall energy levels. Additionally, Inspire is effective in reducing snoring, a common issue for those with sleep apnea.
- Customizable Therapy: The stimulation level can be adjusted to the user’s comfort, and they have full control over when to turn the device on and off using a handheld remote.
- Proven Effectiveness:Â Clinical trials have shown that the Inspire device significantly reduces the number of apnea events per hour, with many patients experiencing a reduction in symptoms by as much as 79%.
Conclusion
The Inspire Sleep Device is a cutting-edge solution for those struggling with obstructive sleep apnea, especially if other treatments haven’t worked. It offers comfort, convenience, and a less intrusive way to manage the condition. However, it’s essential to discuss with your doctor whether this is the right option for you, considering your health, lifestyle, and sleep apnea severity.
If you’re tired of the discomfort and inconvenience of traditional sleep apnea treatments, Inspire could be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Inspire implant last?
The Inspire device has a battery life of approximately 11 years, after which the battery needs to be replaced.
Is Inspire covered by insurance?
Yes, Inspire is covered by most major insurance providers, including Medicare.
How is the Inspire device different from CPAP?
Unlike CPAP, which forces air into the airway, Inspire works by stimulating the airway muscles to keep them open, offering a more comfortable and discreet solution for sleep apnea.
Do sleep apnea devices work?
An oral appliance will usually improve your sleep apnea, but may not completely control it. If you have moderate or severe OSA, CPAP is more likely to work to correct your sleep apnea than an oral appliance. However, an oral appliance may be a better option than no treatment at all if you cannot tolerate CPAP.
Is a sleep apnea machine worth it?
Studies have shown that the benefits of CPAP machines outweigh the drawbacks, and the benefits increase over time with long-term use. According to the National Sleep Foundation, most people who use CPAP machines report immediate symptom relief as well as improved mental alertness and energy the following day.
CPAP Machine: What It Is, How It Works & Side Effects
Consistently using a CPAP machine to treat sleep apnea has both short- and long-term benefits. The main benefit of using a CPAP machine is that it reduces breathing interruptions when you sleep. Because of this, short-term benefits include: Improved sleep quality, which may make you feel better rested.
Are sleep apnea machines accurate?
At-home sleep apnea tests provide a convenient and low-cost alternative to lab-based sleep studies in some cases. Still, there is a potential for less accurate results or misdiagnosis compared to a test conducted at a sleep lab. Talk with your healthcare provider to see if a home sleep apnea test is right for you.
