Alcohol
Yes, you can use iNAP after drinking alcohol, as long as you're alert enough to put it on correctly and are not otherwise impaired. Keep in mind that alcohol relaxes the muscles in your throat, which tends to make the airway more prone to collapse — this is the case regardless of which OSA treatment you use. You may notice a weaker seal or more leakage than usual on nights you've been drinking.
A few things that can help:
- Make extra sure the oral interface is seated correctly and the seal is secure before you go to sleep.
- If you notice persistent leakage, see our article on How to decide when to change pressure? for troubleshooting steps.
- Alcohol can also be dehydrating, which may leave your mouth feeling drier than usual — drinking a little water before bed can help.
If leakage or discomfort continues to be a problem on these nights, reach out to our customer care team and we can help you fine-tune your settings.
Smoking
Smoking irritates the lining of the upper airway and throat, which can contribute to inflammation and swelling that make obstructive sleep apnea worse — independent of whatever OSA treatment you're using. Smoking can also reduce overall sleep quality and make it harder to get the deep, restorative sleep your body needs.
iNAP can still be used by people who smoke, but if you're looking to get the most out of your treatment, reducing or quitting smoking is one of the most effective things you can do for your airway health in general — not just for sleep apnea.