CPAP Machine
Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Palm City
More Information on CPAP Machines
Are you sick of dealing with snoring and awful sleep? It’s time to get a proper diagnosis for your sleep apnea and finally get on the road to better health. The Sleep Apnea Wellness Center in Stuart, Florida offers the latest technology in sleep apnea treatment in the Treasure Coast area. Read on for answers to commonly asked questions, and find out if a CPAP might be a good match for your sleep disorder.
What does a CPAP machine do?
CPAP is short for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. When you use a CPAP, you wear a mask that fits over your nose and mouth. CPAP Machines blow air at a higher rate of pressure than the surrounding air. This forced air keeps your airway open during sleep.
Many people think of CPAP Machines as loud, obnoxious, bulky machines. In the past, this may have been truer. However, today’s CPAP Machines are smaller, sleeker, and use much quieter motors.
Benefits Of using a CPAP Machine
- Eliminates Snoring: A CPAP will keep your airway open while you sleep, eliminating snoring. Your sleep partner will thank you for this!
- Increased Concentration and Alertness: Lack of uninterrupted sleep causes trouble concentrating and grogginess. CPAP therapy will improve your sleep and leave you finally feeling refreshed in the morning.
- Improved Mood: Lack of quality, restful sleep is an unpleasant side effect of untreated sleep apnea. Research also shows that untreated sleep apnea can result in depression. A CPAP machine helps you get better quality sleep, leading to a happier you.
- Fewer Health Problems: Untreated sleep apnea is linked to health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Using a CPAP will reduce the risk of developing these problems.
Who Should Use a CPAP Machine?
CPAP Machines are good options for people who:
- Snore loudly
- Are excessively sleepy during the day
- Have headaches in the morning
- Have a diagnosis of sleep apnea
What are the Side Effects of Using a CPAP Machine?
Those who use CPAP machines sometimes report adverse effects and mild discomfort after use. This is usually due to ill-fitting masks, improper use, or just needing to get used to the machine. Here are some of the common issues:
Skin irritation
If you’re waking up with red marks on your face or are developing sores, this is a sign that your mask straps are not fitting properly. Adjust the straps accordingly to get a more comfortable fit.
Dry nose
Another common side effect of an ill-fitting mask is a dry, stuffy nose. Like with watery eyes, a dry nose is also caused by your mask leaking air.
Trouble falling asleep
Some people report difficulty falling asleep when they first get their CPAP. This is normal during this adjustment period. To help ease the transition you can practice wearing the machine during the day to get used to it. Also, make sure that you’re sticking to a healthy bedtime routine. This includes a consistent sleep schedule, no large meals before bed, regular exercise, and making sure your bedroom is only being used for sleep.
Teary eyes
This is another sign that your mask might not be fitting well. If your mask is leaking air, some of it may be directed towards your eyes, which might cause your eyes to water. Try adjusting the straps for a better fit. If that doesn’t work, you may need to contact your device’s manufacturer to try a different sized mask.
Swallowing air
When air from the CPAP improperly enters your stomach, it can result in belching, flatulence, bloating, and stomach pain. When this happens, most people get relief after passing gas within the first hour of waking up. If these symptoms are more severe, however, you should contact your doctor to see how to reduce air swallowing. Possible treatment includes adjusting the pressure on your machine, over-the-counter medication, and adjusting your sleep position.
Your Dedicated Local Sleep Expert
Dr. Horan and his staff of sleep specialists at the Sleep Apnea Wellness Center have helped countless patients transform their lives with an alternative to CPAP Machines. After dealing with problems associated with untreated sleep apnea for years, the difference when using oral appliance therapy can be astounding. Call us to make an appointment for your sleep apnea today!
