The dilemma of sleep apnea has been discussed and studied over the past decade. It is common to be able to understand someone suffering from this sleep disorder. Since my diagnosis of sleep apnea twenty years ago, I have lived with it and its treatment every day. What I learned was that you need to know how your CPAP machine works. This is common in sleep apnea. Patients may not be aware of their breathing problems or wake up occasionally at night. This article will serve as a beginners guide to treat sleep apnea the right way and feel better again.
Overview of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea refers to a disorder in which the breathing process is disrupted or is too slow. These pauses can last anywhere from a few seconds up to several seconds. Central sleep apnea is when a person’s breathing pattern is marked by low work of breathing. This accounts for less than 1% of sleep apnea cases. Obstructive sleep disorder, also known as type I, when breathing is disrupted by an airflow blockage.
Sleep Apnea: Signs and symptoms
Sleep apnea may not be diagnosed immediately. They might become so used to feeling tired and sleepy that they don’t realize there is a problem. Sleep apnea is more common in adults than it is in children. Sleep apnea can cause daytime sleepiness as well as decreased stamina, low blood sugar levels, vision problems, slow reaction times, and impaired driving skills. It is becoming increasingly clear that sleep apnea can cause impaired liver function.
Untreated, a host of diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and heart attack, can quickly develop. My wife brought several of these indicators to my attention in my case. She noticed that her breathing was slow and she was not as alert as usual. She also experienced periods of extreme fatigue throughout the day. We visited our doctor, and then a sleep specialist.
CPAP Machine as the Best Treatment
As part of therapy, some of the factors that can lead to sleep apnea may be addressed. This condition can be treated by losing weight, quitting alcohol, and sleeping on your side rather than your spine. A CPAP machine is the best treatment for moderate to severe cases. This tube’s opposite ends are connected to the CPAP machine that delivers air. The use of a CPAP machine is effective in reducing sleep apnea.
However, many patients find the mask uncomfortable. Because each patient’s obstruction needs would be addressed individually, a CPAP system would need to be customized.