CPAP For Sleep Apnea

In general, there are many remedies for sleep apnea, depending on the severity of the condition.

For those with more severe symptoms the first solution recommended by doctors is this machine (Continuous Positive Air Pressure).

It represents a non-invasive medical solution to deficient breathing at night.

These machines are not a cure for sleep apnea, but appliances which help keep it under control, preventing the deterioration of your health.

This is an aggressive treatment of this condition. It certainly works if used properly once the user is accustomed to it, but therein lies the problem.

Getting used to CPAP for sleep apnea is not all that easy, but once you have mastered the machine it is worthwhile.

Untreated apnea can lead to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and other nasty life-threatening conditions.

It is worth persisting with this machine for the sake of your own good health!

There are various models and masks to appeal to any user.

Accessories are available according to your needs.

Humidifiers prevent dry throats and can warm the flow of air in cold climates.

The use of a sleep apnea machine drastically improves the quality of your sleep by reducing the number of times you wake up choking and gasping.

You can actually sleep for seven or eight hours completely undisturbed when wearing the mask.

It may take time for you to become comfortable on this equipment. If you cannot get used to it, talk to your doctor or sleep therapist.

You might be able to try another type or different sizes of mask, or make other adjustments.

Once you get used to this apparatus, the benefits are remarkable. I have heard several people declare they have not had such a good night’s sleep in years.

Investigate your medical aid scheme to find out if they pay for the machine. Mine paid after a justification from my doctor and the sleep study report, which was a relief.

Second-hand machines can be found for sale and there are rent to own options and sometimes a donation is made in certain circumstances by some suppliers.

Cleaning.

As this device introduces air into your lungs and thereby into your body, keeping the various pieces of the equipment clean and sanitary is highly desirable.

Wash mouthpieces and nose masks and hoses gently in warm water with a disinfectant solution. Dust and wipe down pump and humidifier with a soft dry cloth.

Possible Complications:

Sweat under mask and head straps can cause skin irritation;

Nightmares and excessive dreaming when first used;

Nasal or sinus infections;

Constant pressure can cause chest or lung function changes (mostly an issue with high pressure); and bloating.

The most common problem is that people do not use the CPAP for sleep apnea all night and every night. They may even take off the mask during the night because it becomes uncomfortable.

Just one night of not using the machine can make your symptoms reappear.

If you are using a continuous positive airway pressure machine to help you breathe, use it every night.

The machine does make a subdued fan noise.

For more on the CPAP and how it works see using the CPAP for sleep apnea

Feeling refreshed and energetic when you wake up and indeed all day is what everyone is entitled to, and you can experience this. Just embrace the CPAP for sleep apnea and sleep better!

Return from CPAP For Sleep Apnea to Sleep Apnea-Help Home