Last week we discussed oral appliances and how they can be used to treat obstructive sleep apnea, also known as OSA. Today, we’re going to take a look at another common treatment option: the CPAP machine. We can use this device to ensure patients enjoy uninterrupted breathing while sleeping. Otherwise, OSA can lead to exhaustion and poor rest.
How Does a CPAP Machine Work?
The patient wears a mask over the nose and mouth that connects to a machine via a plastic hose. The machine pumps air through your nose and mouth, ensuring your breathing remains uninterrupted during sleep. For many people, this is one of the best means of addressing sleep difficulties.
Understanding the Causes and Symptoms of Sleep Apneas
Sleep apnea happens when the soft tissues in the throat and the back of the mouth become overly relaxed and collapse, blocking airflow. You stop breathing until your brain registers a lack of oxygen and wakes you. Often, people experience this cycle dozens of times every hour, leaving them exhausted the next day. Common warning signs of sleep apnea include:
- Chronic snoring
- Episodes of waking up choking or gasping for air
- Daytime drowsiness
- Moodiness
If you think these potential warning signs sound familiar, then please contact our office today. You can also fill out a sleep assessment on our website to see if you benefit from a diagnosis and exam.
Consequences of Untreated OSA
What happens if you don’t seek treatment for OSA? Patients may eventually develop high blood pressure, which comes with a higher risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have any questions about treating sleep apnea, then please contact our office today. We want to help you to sleep better and avoid the complications of OSA.
