Sleep Apnea is a serious and disruptive condition in which a person has repeated pauses in breathing whilst asleep. These pauses can last from a couple of seconds up to a few minutes. The body wakes itself as a reaction to this pause. Though the person suffering might not be aware of having ever woken up, they will be unable to get restful night’s sleep and feel tired and drowsy the next day. CPAP machines are currently the most effective treatment for certain forms of Sleep Apnea.
There are two separate forms of Sleep Apnea as well as a condition which is a mixture of both. Central Sleep Apnea is caused when the brain stops sending the signals that control breathing. Obstructive Sleep Apnea is brought about when tissue and muscles in the air passages relax, blocking the airway. Obstructive Sleep Apnea is the form that is effectively treated by CPAP therapy.
There are a wide variety of symptoms of Sleep Apnea. Suffers may not be aware of some of them as they occur whilst asleep. A person observing someone suffering from the condition may notice tossing and turning, very heavy and broken snoring, and gasping. The sufferer themselves may be drowsy and tired during the day, find it hard to concentrate when driving, and might gain weight.
Long term Sleep Apnea which goes untreated can have serious health implications. It is linked with heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure. It is also associated with depression and chronic fatigue.
CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy is currently the most effective treatment for most people with OSA. It comes in the form of a face mask which provides the wearer with constant pressure at a level prescribed by a doctor. The mask provides a continuous air flow which keeps the airways open and allows the wearer to have uninterrupted breathing throughout the night.
People who have used CPAP therapy have found a range of benefits. More energy, better mood, and increased alertness are the most noticeable positive effects. Overall improvement in quality of sleep and quality of life are generally found.
To get the full benefit of the therapy it should be used every night. Some people can find the mask difficult to get used to but it is important to avoid the risks of untreated Sleep Apnea. Wearing the mask every night is an important part of getting used to sleeping with it. Those who are first starting you should consider wearing it around the house to make it familiar more quickly.
There are a range of alternative treatments available. Surgical and dental procedures can be beneficial for some people. Sleeping in a slightly upright position has been shown to improve symptoms for some individuals. Losing weight if obese can reduce pressure on the neck and airways. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can also be effective.
CPAP is the primary treatment for Sleep Apnea and it works for nearly all sufferers. Lack of compliance is the biggest problem with the therapy. Wearing it every night is a sure way to treat the symptoms so it is worthwhile persevering. It will treat the serious risks of Sleep Apnea like heart problems as well as life style issues and will even lessen snoring.
Get more information today on sleep apnea symptoms, where to get CPAP supplies Ottawa and steps to take. Medflex Ottawa Photo 1105 Carling Avenue #102, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4G5, Canada 613-729-2724