Exploring Alternative Treatments for Sleep Apnea — Including Inspire Therapy

For many people with sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is the first treatment option.
But what if you’ve tried CPAP and it just isn’t working for you?

You’re not alone — and thankfully, you have options.
At TriCity Lung & Sleep, we help patients explore safe, effective alternatives to CPAP, including Inspire therapy, oral appliances, and other proven approaches to better sleep.

When CPAP Isn’t the Right Fit

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy remains the gold standard for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
However, some patients struggle with comfort, mask fit, or pressure settings — leading to poor compliance and ongoing fatigue.

If you’ve given CPAP an honest try and still wake up tired, there are other ways to keep your airway open at night.

Inspire Therapy: A Modern Alternative to CPAP

Inspire® therapy is an FDA-approved, implantable device that treats moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea without a mask or hose.

Here’s how it works:

• A small device is placed under the skin during a short outpatient procedure.
• When you sleep, Inspire monitors your breathing patterns.
• It delivers gentle stimulation to the nerves that control your tongue, keeping your airway open naturally.

You simply turn it on before bed with a handheld remote — and turn it off in the morning.
No mask. No tubing. No nightly adjustments.

Inspire is a great option for patients who can’t tolerate CPAP or want a more discreet, lifestyle-friendly treatment.

Other CPAP Alternatives

Not every patient qualifies for Inspire, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
Depending on your type and severity of sleep apnea, our sleep team may recommend:

1. Oral Appliance Therapy

A custom-fit oral appliance (similar to a mouthguard) repositions the jaw to help keep the airway open.
These devices are ideal for mild to moderate OSA or primary snoring and are easy to travel with.

2. Positional Therapy

Some patients experience apnea primarily when sleeping on their back.
Positional devices or smart sleep wearables can help train you to sleep on your side — reducing airway collapse.

3. Weight Management and Lifestyle Changes

Weight loss, reducing alcohol intake, and improving nasal airflow can significantly improve breathing patterns and sleep quality.
We work with you to create a realistic plan tailored to your health needs.

4. Surgery

In certain cases, surgical options such as UPPP, nasal reconstruction, or jaw advancement may be considered.
Our specialists carefully review each case to determine if surgery could provide lasting improvement.

How We Help You Decide

Choosing the right sleep apnea treatment can be overwhelming — especially after struggling with CPAP.
That’s why Dr. Saad Ahmad and our experienced clinical team take a personalized approach.

At TriCity Lung & Sleep, we:

• Perform detailed sleep studies (in-lab or at home).
• Review your airway anatomy, sleep patterns, and CPAP history.
• Discuss every suitable alternative, including Inspire.
• Coordinate care with ENT surgeons or dental sleep specialists if needed.

You’ll leave with a clear plan — not confusion.

Learn more about our Sleep Medicine Services →

The Future of Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep medicine is evolving rapidly, and Inspire therapy represents one of the most exciting advances in years.
It’s discreet, effective, and backed by strong clinical results showing improved quality of life and reduced daytime sleepiness.

But Inspire isn’t for everyone — and that’s okay.
What matters most is finding the treatment that fits you.

At TriCity Lung & Sleep, our goal is simple:
to help you breathe better, sleep deeper, and wake up refreshed.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you’re struggling with CPAP or still feeling tired after treatment, schedule a consultation today.
We’ll help you find the right approach — whether that’s Inspire, an oral appliance, or a custom plan built around your needs.

👉 Request a sleep consultation
and take the first step toward better rest and better health.