Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is affordable, effective and uncomplicated with the most commonly prescribed treatment being Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy. The PAP equipment delivers either a fixed or variable flow of gentle air pressure through mask that the individual wears while sleeping. The air pressure is adjusted so that it is just enough to prevent the airways in the throat from collapsing during sleep, acting as a “splint” eliminating airway collapse and allowing the individual to breathe normally. This permits uninterupted and restorative sleep. For many individuals PAP therapy dramatically improves their quality of life, daytime functioning and general health. PAP is not a cure but is effective and the preferred therapy for managing OSA.

During normal breathing the throat is clear and open, allowing air to flow freely to and from the lungs.		While a person with OSA sleeps, tissues at the back of the throat collapse and block the flow of air.		Positive airway pressure therapy can keep the airway open, so that air flows freely to and from the lungs.

Obstructive Sleep apnoea can also be treated surgically, however the cost and success rates vary greatly depending on the individual and the chosen procedure. Non surgical dental appliances have also been tried by individuals. These work by bringing the lower jaw forward to increase the size of the airway. This approach is normally adopted in very mild forms of OSA or for individuals who snore but do not obstruct.