A new treatment approach to sleep apnea—repeated pauses in breathing during sleep—was introduced, Kyunghyang Shinmun reported. Whether it can replace the existing CPAP machine is the focus of interest.

Sleep apnea is a condition in which the airway narrows or closes during sleep, repeatedly halting breathing. Beyond severe daytime drowsiness, it is known to raise long-term risks such as high blood pressure and heart disease, making management important.

The CPAP machine, the standard treatment, is highly effective, but many patients abandon it because it is uncomfortable to wear. Alternative approaches, such as improving the function of the tongue and airway muscles, are therefore under steady study.

Still, the effectiveness and eligibility for new treatments vary by individual condition. Doctors advise that if symptoms are suspected, professional diagnosis such as a polysomnography test should come before self-judgment.

Sinophone Bridge Times does not recommend any treatment or substitute for medical judgment. This article is for health information; readers with symptoms are urged to consult a specialist.