Frequently asked questions
Why do I snore?
Snoring is caused by vibration of the structures of the throat during sleep. When you sleep, the muscles of the throat relax and partially collapse. The narrowest parts of the throat can then create turbulence of the air flowing through your throat which makes the snoring sound.
You’re more likely to snore if you:
- are overweight
- smoke
- drink too much alcohol
- sleep on your back
Is snoring dangerous?
It has been shown that Snoring affects sleep quality of the snorer and partner. It is important to note that snoring may just be the tip of the iceberg. Although snoring per say does not damage your health, Snoring can be a clue to a more serious condition called obstructive sleep apnoea (intermittent complete blockage of breathing during sleep).
Do I have sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea is a serious health condition associated with health problems like high blood pressure and increased risks of heart attack, stroke, or death. It is often associated with day time sleepiness and your partner may notice you breath hold or stop breathing in the night.
If you have these symptoms or are concerned you may have the condition, please refer to your doctor.
How does eXciteOSA device work?
The eXciteOSA device will deliver small electric currents through the Mouthpiece to your tongue, this will stimulate the tongue muscle and improve its tone. The improved tone of the tongue muscle will help in keeping the breathing passage open during your sleep and reduce the vibration of the throat region.
How soon do I see the result with eXciteOSA?
You should notice an improvement in your snoring within 4 weeks. This is dependent upon adherence to the recommended therapy programme of one 20 minute session daily. Although you may see improvement within 4 weeks, we recommend you finish the 6 week therapy period to ensure you gain the optimal improvement possible.
At what level should I start and what is the optimum level for my therapy?
The intensity always starts at level 1; it is recommended that you increase the intensity to a level that is comfortable for you for each therapy session. The therapy changes frequencies at 5 minute intervals. At these intervals the stimulation will automatically drop in intensity for comfort. If you feel any discomfort or lack of stimulation, then the intensity can be reduced or increased accordingly. Over the duration of the recommended therapy programme you will notice that your tolerance levels will increase, and you can go up in intensity comfortably. It is important to avoid increasing the intensity to beyond comfortable level, as higher intensity will not lead to additional improvement.
What should I expect during and after my therapy?
During the therapy you should experience a tingling sensation on the tongue and tongue muscle contractions. As the intensity is increased the muscle contraction will get stronger. Please remember to set the intensity at a level that is comfortable for you. Increasing the intensity beyond comfortable level will not improve the outcome of the therapy session. It may become an uncomfortable sensation.
What time of the day should I use the eXciteOSA device?
The eXciteOSA can be used anytime during the day, but it is recommended to be used before you go to sleep at night.
