The benefits of CPAP for sleep apnea include better sleep and fewer snoring. You may not feel it right away, but CPAP does help you sleep better. If you don't experience sleep apnea during the night, you'll be able to sleep through the night. Research Shows CPAP Machines Are Incredibly Effective in Treating Sleep Apnea.
CPAP is often the first line of defense against the condition because it produces excellent results. It's not uncommon for you to sometimes wake up to find that you've removed your mask while you're sleeping. If you move a lot while you sleep, you may find that a full face mask will hold better on your face. You may have removed your mask while you were sleeping because you were uncomfortable.
Consider trying a different type of mask that fits you better. The doctor will determine the pressure settings you need and these can be programmed on the machine. Some machines come with features like “ramp”, which you can start at a lower setting and gradually increase to keep you more comfortable. Many people prefer this because it gives you the opportunity to fall asleep before reaching maximum pressure.
If you struggle to tolerate forced air or struggle to fall asleep, starting with a lower pressure setting can help. Many machines have an integrated function called a “ramp” that allows you to fall asleep at the lowest pressure and automatically increases until you reach the pressure prescribed by your doctor. If your machine doesn't have a “ramp” configuration, it may be worth considering switching to a machine that does. Over time, many people adapt to therapy enough that they no longer need to use the 'ramp'.
Similar to the “ramp” function, expiratory pressure relief (also known as CFLEX) is another optional adjustment that can increase your comfort. While most CPAP machines deliver airflow at a constant pressure rate, expiratory pressure relief reduces pressure as you exhale, helping to relieve a feeling of lack of air. Most machines will reduce pressure by 1, 2, or 3 settings during exhalation, making it easier to release your breath. Some even have advanced features that adjust automatically based on each user's breathing cycles.
Expiratory pressure relief is an environment that can increase compliance for patients who have difficulty adapting to forced air. If this function doesn't help, talk to your doctor about switching to a machine that automatically and consistently adjusts your pressure while you sleep. Learning to sleep on your side can also help lessen some of the symptoms of sleep apnea by lowering the required pressure settings. If you've ever had to sleep with a mask that draws air into your nose or mouth, you know that's not an easy task.
Keep in mind that it's important to avoid naps, especially as a CPAP beginner, because they reduce your sleep debt. Other devices can hold the tongue in place to prevent it from falling back and blocking the throat during sleep. While you may not be thrilled with the idea of having to fall asleep with a mask tied to your face, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of options to choose from. Sleeping on an angle can improve some of the symptoms of mild sleep apnea, but it can also be an excellent option for those using CPAP therapy.
A CPAP machine uses a hose connected to a mask or nose bridge to deliver constant, constant air pressure to help you breathe while you sleep. Most people can sleep better with CPAP therapy and generally feel more energetic during the day. Getting used to sleeping with a mask and forced air will take time and may initially make it more difficult to sleep at night. After the patient falls asleep, the pressure is adjusted to keep the back of the airway open during sleep.
It's a good idea to consider your perfect mask when you put on, but even if you don't know what mask you want, it's important to talk to your doctor or medical equipment provider about how you sleep. Nasal masks are smaller and generally more comfortable to wear, but many users who sleep on their backs require the highest pressure settings that can only be administered with a full-face design. His knowledge of sleep apnea and CPAP therapy goes much further back, however, to when a loved one of his was diagnosed with sleep apnea. From figuring out how to buy a mattress online, suggesting one that's good for different needs and body types, or analyzing the latest science behind technological and wellness advancements, Sleep Advisor has you covered.
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