Open communication with your doctor about your CPAP therapy experience is so important, especially when you first start out. Each individual is different, so be sure to let your doctor know how your experience is going and don’t hesitate to communicate any issues or concerns you have.
Some surgical interventions mean you’re symptom-free after the initial postoperative recovery, but CPAP treatment requires you to utilize your CPAP equipment right after diagnosis and to keep at it every night.
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.
Oral appliances position the jaw or tongue to keep the upper airway open. Although these devices are an alternative to CPAP therapy in people who cannot tolerate continuous airway pressure, some people benefit from using an oral appliance alongside CPAP therapy.
While lifestyle changes like exercise, weight loss and modified sleeping positions can be helpful, these modifications may not be enough to improve moderate to severe OSA on their own, and an alternative treatment like a custom oral appliance might be suggested to open the airway.
Reminding yourself of the big picture and your “why” for continuing CPAP therapy is a great way to stay encouraged; surrounding yourself with a strong support system matters: studies suggest that some who started CPAP therapy eventually reported symptoms of depression, causing them to give up on CPAP.
There are some surgical procedures for Sleep Apnea, that you may benefit from. Please speak with your doctor to confirm what option would best fit your need.
People with OSA have many options to choose from when considering treatment, therapy, or surgery. Consulting your primary physician and sleep specialists should be your first step.
Medicare.gov provides essential information about signing up for and using Medicare, which is health insurance for people 65 or older.
Cacho, adding that website positional therapy tends to work best for those with mild sleep apnea that occurs exclusively during back sleep. This therapy may also be helpful in more severe cases of OSA when combined with other therapeutic options.
A therapist may not only help stave off the symptoms of depression but also help you maintain a more positive outlook on life, increasing the likelihood of sleep therapy compliance.
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June 2022. Treatment Options in Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Found on the Net at Comfort is another factor to consider. Some people find PAP masks uncomfortable, dislike traveling with a machine, or are disturbed by the noise. In those cases, smaller oral devices or natural treatments like weight loss or physical or positional therapy may be preferred.
Research shows that losing excess weight can reduce the severity of OSA symptoms. A combination of a change in diet and moderate exercise may be recommended. However, weight loss alone cannot completely eliminate OSA.