Shopping for a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine can be a daunting undertaking, especially for someone with a new sleep apnea diagnosis. If you’re at the point where you’ve researched the benefits of CPAP therapy and decided it’s worth it to take the leap and get a prescription, you’re likely already finding comfort knowing you’re on your way to better sleep.
Tongue retaining devices keep the tongue forward so that it does not block the airway. These devices also help reduce the number of apnea events experienced, although studies have shown issues with compliance. People tend to prefer mandibular advancement devices over tongue retaining devices.
There are two types of sleep apnea: OSA and central sleep apnea (CSA). The most common form, OSA, occurs when the upper airway is blocked recurrently during sleep. This form of sleep apnea is treated with CPAP, as well as additional methods of reducing the frequency of the blockages.
An auto-ramp feature also allows you to ease into your therapy with pressure that gradually builds to your prescribed levels. This can be set to increase pressure for up to 1 hour after turning on the machine. Another notable component is the built-in humidifier, which is heated to minimize condensation in your connective hose.
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You should feel a mild sensation from the stimulation. Typically, patients feel a tingling sensation or mild contraction in their tongue muscles.
Treatment should be based on individual circumstance and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
CPAP cannot be used in individuals who are not spontaneously breathing. Patients with poor respiratory drive need invasive ventilation or non-invasive ventilation with CPAP plus additional pressure support and a backup rate (BiPAP).
Dr. Karelsky focuses on providing a personalized, get more info targeted treatment approach to patients with OSA who do not benefit from treatment with positive airway pressure devices (CPAP or BiPAP). After initial office consultation, patients undergo a procedure known as a sleep endoscopy in order to evaluate the cause of their OSA and determine the best treatment for them, including the Inspire device.
Changing sleep positions can also help reduce OSA symptoms in some people. Alternative sleeping positions may include sleeping on one’s side instead of on their back or sleeping with one’s head slightly elevated, says Dr.
The CPAP device needs to be used every night. Some patients complain of mask discomfort, nasal congestion, and nose and throat dryness when using CPAP. Others find the device to be too constrictive and cumbersome, particularly when traveling.
Severe air trapping diseases with hypercarbia asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Also called Automóvel-adjusting CPAP or auto-titrating BPAP, this technology can be added to CPAP or BiPAP devices to allow the machine to automatically adjust air pressure as needed during the night.
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty: This surgery includes removal or repositioning of tissue from around the upper airway.