The National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research reports that 38,000 deaths related to cardiovascular problems that are connected to sleep apnea occur each year. That’s a huge number, made all the more troubling by the fact that 2% to 4% of Americans have an undiagnosed case of sleep apnea … accounting for 1 in 50 individuals being undiagnosed. An important part of treating sleep apnea is knowing the treatments and equipment available, and knowing what is right for you. If the first treatment isn’t for you, don’t worry; there are plenty of options available for your specific needs.
1. CPAP Machines
A CPAP machine … commonly found amongst ResMed CPAP supplies … is one of the two commonly used sleep apnea machines. It administers continuous positive air pressure, stimulating normal breathing patterns in the patient. Unfortunately, the issue with CPAP machines isn’t that they don’t work, but the fact that many sleep apnea sufferers don’t use it correctly. In fact, it’s estimated that up to 80% of patients that claim to use their CPAP machines don’t use them enough to stay safe. If you use your CPAP machine incorrectly, or any ResMed CPAP supplies incorrectly, you will not get the correct results.
2. A BIPAP Machine
A BIPAP machine functions similarly to the CPAP machine and has a purpose. Unlike a CPAP machine, however, a BIPAP machine issues varying air pressures. Whether a CPAP or BIPAP machine is right for you depends heavily on your individual needs. You may find that you need to try both before finding the machine that works for you.
3. Nasal Pillows
Nasal pillows are other products that can be found among ResMed CPAP supplies. A nasal pillow is in fact one of the many types of CPAP masks. While the CPAP machine creates the air pressure, the mask delivers it, in a manner of speaking. Nasal pillows, unlike full nasal masks, are designed to be light and unobtrusive as possible. They are focused almost entirely on the nasal passage, keeping your line of vision clear. But what works for some people doesn’t necessarily work for everyone: 50% of sleep apnea sufferers prefer nasal pillows, 45% prefer nasal masks, and 5% have no preference.
4. Travel CPAP Machines
It’s important that, while sleep apnea affects your life, it doesn’t control it. Many find CPAP masks somewhat limiting, and are concerned that it will affect their ability to travel for business or pleasure. Luckily, travel CPAP machines do exist and are very effective. With a travel CPAP machine, you can go wherever you want to go without neglecting your health.
The decision about whether or not to treat your sleep apnea is yours alone. However, remember that treatments are flexible, and will only change your life for the better.