What is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea?

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is recognized as the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. This method involves delivering a steady stream of air through a mask that keeps the airway open during sleep. By doing so, it effectively mitigates the interruptions in breathing that characterize obstructive sleep apnea.

CPAP is favored because it not only addresses the immediate problem of airway obstruction during sleep but can also significantly improve sleep quality, reduce daytime fatigue, and lower the risk of complications associated with untreated sleep apnea, such as cardiovascular issues.

Other treatments, while beneficial for certain cases, generally do not have the same level of effectiveness or widespread application as CPAP therapy. Oral appliance therapy can be a viable alternative, particularly for those who prefer not to use CPAP, but it is not as commonly prescribed. Weight loss programs may help reduce symptoms for some individuals, but they require lifestyle changes that not everyone can maintain. Positional therapy can also provide benefits, but it is typically used in conjunction with other methods rather than as a standalone treatment. Thus, CPAP remains the cornerstone of treatment for most individuals with obstructive sleep apnea.