New electrical stimulation approach shows promise for sleep apnea relief
Researchers at a prominent UK university report that transcutaneous electrical stimulation can ease sleep apnea symptoms and may offer an alternative to CPAP therapy, a device many patients find uncomfortable. The findings appear in a medical journal focused on clinical research.
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome involves snoring and repeated pauses in breathing during sleep due to airway collapse. This disruption lowers blood flow, fragments sleep, and raises cardiovascular risk. CPAP machines are commonly prescribed to keep airways open, but about three quarters of users abandon therapy within the first three months because the mask and device feel burdensome during the night.
In a recent trial, scientists examined electrical stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve as a way to promote better breathing during sleep. The study ran from 2018 through 2023 and included 56 adult participants with varying severities of sleep apnea. The electrical stimulation was compared against standard CPAP treatment.
After three months, researchers noted smoother breathing during sleep and a noticeable decrease in daytime fatigue. Some patients did report mild side effects, including headaches in one participant and mild skin irritation where the electrodes were placed. The stimulation used a small, battery powered subcutaneous device that generates weak currents to influence the tongue and surrounding muscles that help keep the airway open.
During treatment, users wore sticky pads with embedded electrodes on the neck and upper back before sleep. The authors indicate that the electrical signals may boost muscle activity that helps maintain airway patency throughout the night.
Response to the technique varied with body mass index and neck size. Those with higher BMI and larger neck circumference showed less improvement due to reduced penetration of the impulses. In such cases, CPAP remains a viable option, and the new approach is positioned as an alternative for individuals who cannot tolerate CPAP, not a wholesale replacement at this stage.
These results add to the growing discussion about personalized strategies for sleep apnea management and highlight the potential for noninvasive nerve stimulation to complement existing therapies. Ongoing work aims to optimize stimulation parameters and identify which patients are most likely to benefit from this approach.
Note: The study was conducted with careful oversight and data were collected to assess safety, efficacy, and tolerability across a diverse participant group. The results contribute to a broader understanding of how targeted neuromodulation might improve sleep quality and reduce daytime symptoms for people living with obstructive sleep apnea.
Further research is expected to clarify long-term outcomes and to explore practical guidelines for integrating electrical stimulation into treatment plans. Such work could help expand options for patients who struggle with CPAP, offering a path to better sleep and improved health without compromising comfort or convenience.