Sleep Apnea is characterized by frequent pauses in breathing whilst asleep. Pauses can be serious and disruptive, lasting for anything from a couple of seconds to a few minutes. The bodies reaction to this is to wake up. People with the condition are often unaware of ever having been woken up. Nevertheless, sufferers struggle to get a good night’s sleep and have chronic tiredness and drowsiness the next day. CPAP machines are used as a treatment of this condition.
The various types of Sleep Apnea are Central Sleep Apnea, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and Mixed Sleep Apnea which is combination of the other two. CSA is caused by a pause in the brain signals that are vital to controlling breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep Apnea is normally brought about by muscles and tissue surrounding the airways relaxing, blocking air flow. CPAP is the most effective treatment for the obstructive form of Sleep Apnea.
Sleep Apnea has a range or related symptoms. Sufferers may be unaware of some as they occur whilst asleep. These can include very heavy but broken snoring, tossing and turning, or sudden gasping or snorting. A person with sleep apnea may find that during the day they are tired, drowsy, irritable, and find it hard to concentrate while driving.
There are serious health risks involved with untreated and long term Sleep Apnea. It can increase a person’s risk of strokes, heart attacks, and heart failure. It has also been linked with chronic fatigue and depression.
CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) is an extremely effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. The sleep apnea sufferer wears a face mask which provides a continuous pressure at a level that is prescribed by a doctor. This pressure helps to keep the airways open and helps to give the wearer uninterrupted air flow and an unbroken night’s sleep.
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.
CPAP should be used every single night to avoid the risk of untreated Sleep Apnea. Some people find the mask hard to get used to at first. Wearing it every night and during naps will make It easier to sleep with. Wearing your mask around the house will help you to get used to the feel of it and get you into the habit of remembering to use it.
There are several other possible treatments available. Dental procedures can be helpful for some individuals. Reducing your weight if you are significantly overweight or obese can have significant benefits. Sleeping in an upright position, reducing drinking, and stopping smoking 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
