Bloomington / Normal, IL

Working with the community... for a healthier community.

Would You Rather Snore?

Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

By Kate Rousey, Heartland Home Medical

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. We know it works! Yet, many people quit using their CPAP machine. Why? Do they prefer feeling sleepy all day due to a poor night’s sleep? Do they enjoy annoying the other members of the household with their loud snoring? Probably not.

Sleep apnea is when a person has multiple dangerous pauses in breathing throughout the night. This can cause a poor night’s sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness. Most importantly, using a CPAP machine can help to prevent heart attacks and strokes and can be helpful in treating high blood pressure and diabetes, yet some people do not want to even consider using a CPAP. The idea of sleeping with a mask on their face is not particularly appealing. While this may be true, it’s not as bad as you might think. The vast majority of CPAP users find that they feel so much better after getting a good night’s sleep that it is worth the slight adjustment of using a mask at night. You’ll feel more attentive and better able to work during the day. Your bed partner will most certainly prefer the gentle hum of the CPAP over the sound of loud snoring! 

Some people start with CPAP treatment and then quit. They don’t allow enough time to get used to it. They give up too soon because it feels a little strange at first and the flow of air is something people aren’t familiar with. Other people may stop because they don’t bother to request adjustments to the mask that would make it more comfortable. This is one reason why it is important to work with a home medical equipment provider’s respiratory therapist that is experienced and knowledgeable about CPAP machines and equipment.

There are many different kinds of CPAP machines to choose from, and you want someone that can help you select the machine that is best for you. CPAP masks come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. Some fit over your nose and mouth; others only cover your nose and others use pillows that fit in your nostrils. The fit of the mask is of utmost importance, not only for comfort, but also to keep air from leaking out. If you’re not happy with the type you’re using, a qualified home medical pro can suggest switching to a different kind that may work better for you. The person you work with can also give you tips for helping to adjust to using the CPAP machine.

CPAP machines require some maintenance. Cleaning and replacing supplies are very important. Your home medical supplier provides replacement filters, masks, and hoses for your machine. There is a new device available that makes cleaning your CPAP machine fast and easy. The SoClean CPAP Cleaner and Sanitizer is an automated machine that effectively kills 99.9 percent of CPAP germs in the mask, hose, and reservoir without the use of any chemicals or even water.

Some people feel better after the very first night of using a CPAP. They immediately wake up feeling refreshed, alert, and in a better mood. For other people, it may take a week or even a month to adjust. While some of the problems can be frustrating, don’t give up! The benefits are worth it.

CPAP machines and the SoClean CPAP Cleaning System are available at Heartland Home Medical Supply. They are a locally owned company, providing quality service, products, and equipment to help each individual remain active, independent, healthy, and safe in their homes, whether it is for a short-term need or long-term care. You may contact them at 309-829-8122 or stop in their showroom at 716 E. Empire, Ste 2.