Accordig to the Sleep Apnea Organization, an estimated 22 million people suffer from sleep apnea.
Living with the condition can be a struggle and cause serious issues in other aspects of your life. High blood pressure, insomnia, sleep deprivation, and snoring are all common side effects of sleep apnea. When looking for a way to treat sleep apnea, continuous positive airway pressure therapy, or CPAP, is often the most reliable method.
Today, your trusted McAllen pharmacists at Saenz Pharmacy will set the record straight on CPAP machines as a solution for your sleep apnea.
What Is a CPAP Machine?
CPAP machines were designed to help those struggling with obtrusive sleep apnea breathe easier while sleeping. The machine works to increase air pressure in your throat so that the airway does not collapse when you breathe in.
The motor in the machine works constantly to generate a constant stream of pressurized air that goes through an air filter and into a tube. The tube then carries the air into a mask that covers either the nose or mouth.
Will the Machine Cure My Sleep Apnea?
The short answer is no, a CPAP is not a permanent cure for those who are diagnosed with sleep apnea. The machine is only effective in alleviating the symptoms associated with the condition, allowing for a restful night’s sleep.
Is a CPAP Machine the Right Choice for Me?
A CPAP machine can be very beneficial for anyone living with sleep apnea. However, while the device offers many pros, there are also cons to be aware of, including:
Pros of a CPAP machine:
- Improves your quality of sleep and helps you sleep without interruption
- Lowers your risk of having a heart attack or stroke
- Lowers blood pressure
- Reduces daytime sleepiness
- Could potentially reduce blood glucose and cholesterol levels
Cons of a CPAP machine:
- The machine could cause discomfort and make it harder to fall asleep
- May evoke a feeling of claustrophobia and anxiety
- Nasal congestion
- Dry mouth
- Nosebleeds
- Sore nose
- Irritation of the eyes
Ultimately, it’s your decision if the pros outweigh the cons when determining if you want to use a CPAP machine.
How Can I Get a CPAP machine?
To obtain a CPAP machine, you must first be diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea by your doctor. To properly be diagnosed, your doctor will run a test called a polysomnogram, which monitors your heart rhythm, brain waves, breathing rates, and airflow while you sleep.
Your prescription for the machine must include the correct pressure level or you could be at risk of suffering from discomfort and the treatment not working as it should.
Once you receive your prescription, it is important to go through a trusted vendor that rents or sells CPAP machines. This will ensure that you are acquiring a high-quality device that can meet your needs.
Don’t Suffer Through Another Sleepless Night and Reach Out to Saenz Pharmacy
To learn more about CPAP machines and to get on the path to getting a better night’s sleep, visit Saenz Pharmacy or contact our office today.