Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatments
The most commonly used method for treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea is nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP, as it’s widely known. This consists of a customised pump mechanism that continuously and gently blows air through a special CPAP mask that is worn over the patient’s nose.
These CPAP machines are the preferred method of treatment for Sleep Apnea all over the world, as no other treatment has been more successful in so many patients. Patients who opt for the other treatments, such as lifestyle changes or mouthpieces, almost always end up using a CPAP machine to properly treat their Sleep Apnea. The other extreme-treatment alternative, surgery, which has also been known to cause undesirable side effects in some patients, does not always solve the problem and is rather costly.
CPAP machines help the patient maintain a regular breathing pattern during sleep, whilst at the same time reducing Sleep Apnea symptoms like loud snoring or daytime sleepiness. Furthermore, CPAP machines will have a knock-on effect and have been known to reduce other medical problems linked to Sleep Apnea, including high blood pressure and assist in controlling diabetes.
The initial setup of the CPAP machine may seem a little complicated at first, which is why it’s beneficial to contact a specialist like The Mobility Shop who can answer some of the basics on Sleep Apnea. Every patient suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea is different, which is why a large variety of CPAP machines and masks exist. Before purchasing a CPAP machine it’s essential that every patient seek medical advice from a qualified Doctor. The technician will use the Doctor’s expert advice to help the patient choose the right CPAP machine and to adjust the settings. If you have not seen a Sleep Specialist or GP and first obtained a script for a CPAP machine you will not be able to purchase a machine from the Mobility Shop. If a CPAP machine is not adjusted correctly it could cause side effects, including a dry nose, stuffy nose, irritated facial skin, sore eyes, headaches and a bloated stomach. Please note that nobody should sell you a CPAP machine without first obtaining a valid prescription as this is legally recognised as a medical device.
Click here to view our range of Sleep Apnea Masks