What You Need to Know About CPAP Therapy

What is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) - ResMedIf you regularly wake up at night or feel excessively sleepy during the daytime, you might be having a sleeping disorder called sleep apnea. According to recent statistics, approximately twenty-five million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. The condition causes an individual to stop breathing when sleeping momentarily. If not treated, sleep apnea can interfere with your ability to experience a restful night’s sleep. Fortunately, Rockville CPAP therapy can effectively treat central and obstructive sleep apnea. Here is an exclusive look at everything you need to know about CPAP therapy.

What Should You Expect During CPAP Therapy?

A CPAP machine operates by taking in room air, then filtering and pressurizing it before delivering it via a tube into your mask. During CPAP therapy, a lightweight mask is placed over the nose when sleeping. The mask is attached to a small unit that offers continuous air pressure to the nasal passage. This forced air prevents episodes of airway collapsing by maintaining the windpipe open hence eliminating snoring and offering a better and more restful night’s sleep. The continuous airflow keeps your uvula, tongue, and soft palate from shifting very far into your airway. This is one of the most effective and common sleep apnea treatments in children and adults. Also, important to note CPAP machines last for more than five years, although you will need to replace the masks regularly.

Why Should You Consider A CPAP Machine?

As stated earlier, a CPAP machine prevents breathing issues caused by sleep apnea. These devices also eliminate adverse side effects of sleep apnea. Some of the reasons you should consider getting a CPAP machine include; reduced risk of stroke and heart attack, enhanced sleep quality, reduced daytime sleepiness, and enhanced sugar management in diabetic patients. Because sleep apnea causes insufficient sleep at night, it can cause an increased risk of a car accident. By using a CPAP machine, drivers with sleep apnea will have a lower risk of engaging in car accidents.

Are There Any Side Effects of CPAP Machines?

It might take some time for you to get used to your CPAP machine. Some individuals find them uncomfortable or cumbersome. Other possible side effects of CPAP therapy include; dry mouth, difficulty falling asleep, skin irritation, feeling bloated, nosebleeds, and feeling claustrophobic. Most of these side effects will diminish as you get used to the CPAP machine. However, consult your doctor about the different masks and treatment options if your device is uncomfortable.

Ultimately, a good night’s sleep is vital for your overall health and can be highly disrupted by sleep apnea. CPAP machines provide the perfect treatment for sleep apnea. If left untreated, sleep apnea can hurt your health and life quality. If you are experiencing sleep apnea symptoms such as loud snoring, daytime tiredness, or interrupted sleep, consider talking to your doctor about your options. A CPAP machine can provide significant benefits for your well-being. When prescribed a CPAP machine, your sleep technologist or doctor will work with you to ensure the settings are prescribed to work best for you.

River Scott

Emmett River Scott: Emmett, a culture journalist, writes about arts and entertainment, pop culture trends, and celebrity news.