Sleep apnea is a disorder that affects an estimated 18 million United States citizens. This disorder causes a person’s breathing to stop repeatedly over the course of the night, an alarming and dangerous occurrence. It is a chronic illness, lasting for years or for the rest of a person’s life.
A great many people live with undiagnosed cases of sleep apnea, possibly 2 or even 4% of all Americans. The symptoms are often very easy to see in a loved one. These symptoms include loud breathing, periods of no breathing and breathing through the mouth. During the day, a person may feel excessive sleepiness and insomnia or nightmares at night. Loved ones may complain of a person snoring. These symptoms, especially the occurrence of more than one at a time, should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Sleep apnea is a serious disorder and it is dangerous if untreated. Treatment of this condition is generally managed at home, under the oversight of a doctor. One common recommendation of medical professionals in for the patient to lose weight, which demands a person change their entire lifestyle. A regular exercise regimen combined with healthy eating is the only truly effective long-term weight loss method.
Another common method of treatment is a continuous positive airway pressure machine, otherwise known as a CPAP machine. These machines are undoubtedly a necessity for effective management of sleep apnea, but they are often uncomfortable, a fact that has led to the creation of a great many aids for comfort. Making these machines more comfortable to wear increases adherence, a positive factor that makes such aides a good investment. A CPAP mask pillow is an example of this. These do not obstruct the vision of the wearer, and a CPAP mask pillow also rests comfortably on the face.
CPAP supplies may be a necessity for a large number of people but that does not prevent them being expensive, a cost that is remitted to a certain degree by insurance for some. However, many people are benefited by looking into discount CPAP machines and pre-owned CPAP machines.
While sleep apnea is a serious diagnosis, appropriate treatment makes it manageable. If you suspect a loved one may have this disorder, or think you might have it yourself, call a doctor immediately.