A new anti-snoring device has been cleared by the FDA. This claims to be a revolutionary new approach for snoring treatment, but it’s really just the same old treatment that we’ve seen for years. It’s basically CPAP light, but it’s still an invasive piece of equipment.
What Is the InSleep Cloud 9?
If you read the description of Cloud9 in the company’s press release, they describe it as providing “comfortable airflow at extremely low airway pressure. The system includes a sports-styled, novel air circuit and innovative small nasal interface, which serves as the mask.”
By use of this wearable device, they say, patients can experience “marked reductions if not complete elimination of snoring by low-levels of continuous airway pressure.” The system is designed for use by people with simple snoring, not sleep apnea.
The promise is that people will be able to get the benefit of snoring reduction without the need for high pressure CPAP. Therefore, it will make for a more comfortable snoring treatment option for people looking for snoring relief.
It Leaves Most CPAP Problems Unsolved
If you read the release by InSleep, the implication is that the only cause for discomfort with CPAP is the high pressure. It’s true that many people are unhappy with the pressure from CPAP. The high pressure can irritate nostrils and throat and dry out mucous membranes. It can force bacteria and debris into the lungs and stomach. You may get bloating and gas. Low-pressure CPAP will help with this.
But if you look at the Cloud9 system, it’s pretty clear that many of the other causes of discomfort are left unaddressed. The supposedly small nasal pillow is not really that small, and the straps look no less uncomfortable than traditional CPAP straps. Strap irritation is one common side effect that people complain about with CPAP.
And then there’s the hose attachment that links the headgear to the air pump. This tube can get tangled and may knock over things on the bedside table, which, again, is a common problem with CPAP.
And then there’s the pump itself, which is likely designed to be quiet, but probably still emits a level of noise such as a humming or buzz. While this is definitely an improvement over snoring, it may not be close enough to silence for all users and their partners.
Is It Worth It to Get CPAP for Snoring?
For people who need CPAP for sleep apnea, the tradeoff is definitely worth it. For people who cannot take advantage of oral appliance therapy, CPAP is a lifesaving device and is usually covered by insurance.
But for simple snoring, the benefit is less clear. We’re not certain how much better the snorer will sleep with this system, and for the partner of the snorer, the introduction of additional disturbances into the bed might not be as beneficial as desired.
Instead, people with simple snoring should look at noninvasive and comfortable treatment options like oral appliances, which can reduce or eliminate snoring without the need for any mask, hoses, or pump.
If you’d like to learn more about comfortable snoring treatment in Omaha, please call (402) 493-4175 today for an appointment with a sleep dentist at the Advanced Dental Sleep Treatment Center.
