Sleep Apnea Solution
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Daytime fatigue, sleepiness and difficulties performing tasks at work may not just be consequences of a busy lifestyle. These are symptoms of a potentially serious condition, sleep apnea
Characterized by the reduction or cessation of breathing for up to 30 times per hour, sleep apnea is actually fairly common in adults. Loud snorting, gasping or a choking sensation caused by a lack of oxygen serves to resume normal breathing..
This condition is extremely disruptive to normal sleep. Due to inadequate breathing, a person suffering from sleep apnea will find it difficult to enter a deep level of sleep and will often wake up in the middle of the night. When a person is unable to get sufficient rest at night, it results in poor concentration, memory problems and headaches.
Unfortunately, a person suffering from sleep apnea is rarely aware of having difficulty in breathing. Also, sleep apnea can go undiagnosed for years because it can't be detected during routine visits to the doctor. When undetected for prolonged periods, it can lead to other complications such as hypertension, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension and even death.
At present, there are 3 known types of sleep apnea – obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA) and mixed sleep apnea. Mixed sleep apnea happens when a person experiences both CSA and OSA. Of the 3 types, the most common condition is the OSA wherein the person's airway is blocked, thereby leading to the inadequate flow of air to the body. According to research, OSA is more common in men, especially those in the older years. Other risk factors include smoking, alcohol intake, diabetes and increasing weight.
There are several treatments available for sleep apnea, depending on the severity. For many cases, medical practitioners suggest lifestyle and behavioral changes. It is suggested that a person with sleep apnea should avoid smoking, drinking alcohol and sleeping pills. Also, it is a good idea to exercise and adhere to a healthy diet so as to reduce weight. In more serious cases, dental appliances, CPAP (positive airway pressure machine) or surgery may be indicated.
Among the treatment options for sleep apnea, the CPAP is probably the best because it is non-invasive (since it is non-surgical) and it works effectively. CPAP devices utilize a mask fitted over the patient's mouth and nose. The machine produces pressure by blowing air gently to the throat. The heated and humidified air coming from the CPAP keeps the nose, palate and tissues open so that sleep goes on undisrupted. CPAP devices come in different forms – from nasal pillows, full face masks and many others. The CPAP machine itself is a bit larger than a toaster, but it is small enough so it can be taken during trips.
When using a CPAP, it is important to determine the lowest pressure level which will keep the airway open during sleep. This is typically determined through titration (which is determined during a diagnostic sleep study) with the help of a technician who adjusts the CPAP pressure for a person suffering from sleep apnea.
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Author Resource:-
The Sleep Apnea Rx site provides education on sleep apnea and similar problems, sound medical advice, and selected products and services helpful to readers suffering from sleep related problems.
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By :
Jessie Stone
Submitted
2010-09-23 14:15:20 |
Article From Article Mayhem
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