If you suffer from sleep apnea, you know how it can negatively affect your quality of life. This serious sleep disorder may cause you to stop breathing for 10 to 30 seconds at a time while you sleep. It can happen up to 400 times each night. All that lost sleep can affect people of all ages. And it affects them in many ways — from headaches and irritability to more serious complications, such as pulmonary hypertension and even death. See your doctor if you think you have sleep apnea. One treatment device offers hope. It’s called a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device.
What is CPAP for sleep apnea?
How CPAP therapy works
A CPAP device fits over your face while you sleep. It includes a mask, tubes, and a fan. The mask and tubes are disposable. There are 3 main types of devices: the nasal pillow model, the nasal mask, and the full-face mask.
A CPAP uses air pressure to push your tongue forward and open your throat. This allows air to pass through your throat. It reduces snoring and prevents sleep disturbances. Your doctor may prescribe a CPAP device after discussing your symptoms and health history. He or she may have you complete a sleep study as well. You may begin with an at-home sleep study. If this study reveals that you have sleep apnea, your doctor may suggest an overnight test at a sleep study facility. Here, you participate in the study with trained clinical professionals who use technology to monitor your overnight sleep. The results from this study will be used to “program” or calibrate your CPAP machine. If your doctor prescribes a CPAP, you should wear it whenever you sleep, even for naps. If you are significantly overweight or suffer from severe apnea, your CPAP may require higher air pressure.
Benefits of CPAP therapy
While a CPAP will not cure sleep apnea, it will help you get a restful night’s sleep. Specific benefits include:
- Improved daytime concentration and memory.
- More energy during the day.
- Your bed partner’s improved sleep.
- Improved productivity at work.
- Reduced anxiety and depression.
- Regular sleep patterns.
- Lower blood pressure if your blood pressure is normally high.
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