Which of the following is a common treatment for sleep apnea?

The CPAP/BiPAP machine is widely recognized as a primary treatment for sleep apnea. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines work by providing a steady stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep, thereby preventing the interruptions in breathing that characterize sleep apnea. BiPAP machines, or Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure machines, offer different pressures for inhalation and exhalation, which can be beneficial for patients who require more complex respiratory support.

The effectiveness of these machines in managing sleep apnea makes them a cornerstone of treatment, significantly improving sleep quality and reducing associated health risks. In many cases, patients experience immediate improvements in symptoms and overall health after starting CPAP or BiPAP therapy.

Other treatment options, while potentially useful, do not directly address the fundamental issue of airway obstruction during sleep. For example, oxygen therapy is not specifically aimed at preventing airway collapse, and inhalers are typically used for conditions like asthma rather than sleep apnea. Chest physiotherapy may help with respiratory issues but is not a standard treatment for sleep apnea. Thus, the CPAP/BiPAP machine stands out as the most effective and widely recommended treatment for this condition.