The Sleep Journal
Kaila Caldwell
Writer & editor
Kaila Caldwell is a Washington, D.C.–based journalist and content strategist specializing in the future of work, business innovation, and social impact. With several years of experience reporting on workplace culture, technology, sustainability, and economic policy, she produces insight-driven content that connects expert analysis with human stories. Her work spans long-form articles, video interviews, and on-the-ground storytelling that highlight how global trends shape the modern workforce.
Articles by Kaila Caldwell
20 articles
Sleep apnea OTC treatments: Real help or just hype?
From melatonin to micro-CPAP, learn which OTC products ease snoring, and why none can actually treat sleep apnea without medical guidance
Can sleep apnea be treated without CPAP? Yes, here’s how
Learn about proven sleep apnea treatments without CPAP including oral appliances, surgery, and simple changes that help you sleep better.
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Is CPAP covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover CPAP equipment, but the process is rarely straightforward. You'll typically need a recent sleep study, a prescription, and proof of compliance — usually 70% usage over 90 days — before full coverage kicks in. Out-of-pocket costs for the first year can still add up to hundreds of dollars even with insurance.
CPAP vs APAP vs BiPAP: What’s the difference and which is better?
CPAP delivers a single fixed air pressure all night; APAP automatically adjusts pressure breath by breath; BiPAP uses two separate pressures — one for inhaling and one for exhaling. Most people with obstructive sleep apnea start with CPAP or APAP. BiPAP is typically prescribed for more complex breathing conditions or when high pressure makes exhaling uncomfortable.
Oral appliance for sleep apnea: How it works, who it helps, what to expect
Understand how custom oral appliances open the airway, who qualifies, side effects, costs, and how Dumbo Health supports you at home.
Is the CPAP machine for kids the same?
Children's CPAP therapy is different from adult CPAP. Pediatric sleep treatment often uses a RAM cannula — a softer, less invasive interface that sits near the nostrils rather than sealing tightly over the nose or face. Pressure settings and mask fitting are also calibrated differently for a child's smaller airway.
Mouth tape to stop snoring: When it helps, when it doesn’t, and what to know
Mouth tape can encourage nasal breathing, but it doesn’t treat sleep apnea. Understand when it helps and safer alternatives.
CPAP Battery Backup: How Long Does It Last and What Options Do You Have?
A CPAP battery backup keeps your therapy running during power outages, travel, or camping when outlets aren't available. Most portable lithium batteries provide 8 to 16 hours of runtime depending on your pressure settings and whether you use a humidifier. Choosing the right backup depends on your machine, your pressure, and how long you need it to last.
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Sleep apnea and weight loss: What really happens when you lose weight
Losing even 10% of body weight can meaningfully reduce sleep apnea severity by decreasing the fat tissue that narrows the upper airway. For people with mild to moderate OSA, weight loss can sometimes eliminate the need for CPAP. Severe sleep apnea usually still requires treatment even after significant weight loss.
Sleep apnea surgery: 3 proven ways to finally breathe easier
From Inspire to MMA, explore how today’s sleep apnea surgeries work, who they help most, and what recovery really looks like.
Alternative medicine for sleep apnea: What helps, what’s hype, and safer add-ons
No alternative therapy can treat obstructive sleep apnea, because none can physically prevent the airway from collapsing during sleep. Some approaches — like positional therapy, myofunctional exercises, and nasal hygiene — can reduce symptom severity as useful add-ons to proven treatments like CPAP or an oral appliance. Anything marketed as a standalone cure for sleep apnea should be viewed with skepticism.
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Best over-the-counter sleep aid: Helpful for sleep, not a fix for sleep apnea
Melatonin and other OTC aids may help you fall asleep, but they don’t open the airway. Learn safer ways to sleep better with apnea.
10 Common CPAP mistakes and how to avoid them
Most people who struggle with CPAP are dealing with avoidable problems: a mask that doesn't fit right, pressure that feels wrong, or side effects like dry mouth and congestion that can be corrected. Small adjustments — like trying a different mask style, enabling the ramp feature, or adding a humidifier — make a significant difference in comfort and compliance. Troubleshooting these issues early is far better than abandoning therapy that could protect your long-term health.
Can acupressure treat sleep apnea?
Acupressure cannot treat sleep apnea, because it cannot stop the airway from collapsing during sleep. Some research suggests it may help reduce stress and improve perceived sleep quality as a complementary practice. It's safe to use alongside CPAP or another proven treatment — just not as a replacement for it.
Can I travel with my CPAP machine?
Wondering how to travel with your CPAP machine? Learn packing tips, TSA rules, batteries, and portable CPAP options to keep therapy consistent anywhere.
Your first night with a CPAP machine: What to expect and how to succeed
Your first night with CPAP will feel strange — the mask, the airflow, and the sound are all new. Most people take one to four weeks to fully adjust, and that is completely normal. Starting with a short daytime practice session, using the pressure ramp feature, and choosing the right mask for your sleep position are the most effective ways to build comfort and stick with it.
How to Choose Your CPAP Mask Type
There are four main CPAP mask types: nasal masks cover the nose, nasal pillow masks insert at the nostrils, full-face masks cover both nose and mouth, and hybrid masks combine both. The right choice depends on whether you breathe through your nose or mouth, how you sleep, and what pressure level you use. Nasal pillows suit light-pressure users and side sleepers; full-face masks work best for mouth breathers and higher-pressure prescriptions.
What is a CPAP machine?
A CPAP machine delivers a constant stream of pressurized air through a mask worn during sleep, keeping the airway open and preventing the breathing pauses caused by obstructive sleep apnea. It's the most widely prescribed and clinically validated treatment for OSA. Most people see meaningful improvement in daytime energy, mood, and cardiovascular health once they build a consistent CPAP habit.
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CPAP vs. Dental appliance: What is the most common sleep apnea treatment?
CPAP is the most effective treatment for moderate-to-severe sleep apnea; oral appliances are less potent but far more tolerable, making them a better real-world fit for mild-to-moderate cases. The best choice depends on your AHI severity, your anatomy, and whether you can consistently use it every night. Both require a prescription and physician oversight.
Can nose strips help sleep apnea?
Used alongside real sleep apnea treatment, nose strips can make therapy more comfortable and keep nasal breathing steady. You just need to know what they actually do and what they don’t.
