[The sleep apnoea syndromes: alternative therapies].

Weight-loss recommendation, no alcohol and no sedatives are the first therapeutic approaches for patients with the obstructive sleep apne syndrome. However, further steps are often necessary. If there is a postural component in mild cases sleeping on the side can help. Recent developments are a range of operations that increase the size of the pharynx. There is a good relief in snoring but the reduction in apnea rate is less successful. Oral appliances are are indicated for primary snoring or mild obstructive sleep apnea. The are no data that support the use of drugs as a therapy for obstructive sleep apnea. Different nonprescription therapies are available (internal and external nasal dilators, nasal and oral lubricants, dietary supplements, magnetic pillows and matresses) but their usefulness for the treatment has not been demonstrated. The treatment of choice for sleep-related obstructive breathing disorders is nCPAP.