| 摘要 |
An apparatus is provided for positioning a user's tongue to bring the tongue forward, to decrease obstructions in the user's airway and reduce snoring. The apparatus comprises a tongue sleeve which is configured to retain the forward extent of the user's tongue. In preferred embodiments, the tongue sleeve has narrowed inner dimensions at a point along the length of the sleeve. This narrowing acts strength the suction when the user's tongue is positioned within the sleeve. Preferably, the narrowing portions comprise an annular constricted portion. The tongue sleeve has one or more airways which may either comprise complete tubes or air channels formed in the tongue sleeve. A number of airways may be provided. In one embodiment, the airway comprises a tube configured to connect with a positive airway pressure supply means to maintain the patency of the user's upper respiratory tract. A shield means which serves to position the tongue sleeve with respect to the user's mouth is attached by attachment means to the tongue sleeve. The shield means is restrained by the user's lips. In a preferred embodiment, the attachment means is adjustable and may comprise a series of notches along the tongue sleeve which are adapted to receive the shield means. Typically, the attachment means in conjunction with the shield means moves the user's tongue forward from 1 to 4 centimeters. The shield means may also comprise a shelf which receives the user's lips or the user's lips and teeth. In some embodiments, the shelf has extensions to accommodate the user's dental arch. Preferably, an elastomeric, moldable or conformable material is attached to the shelf.
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