New Products for Sleep Apnea
A potentially serious disorder with a range of far-reaching consequences, sleep apnea occurs when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Unfortunately, many people suffer needlessly, because they avoid wearing their cumbersome continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices. Thanks to modern sleep apnea machines, however, more and more people are gaining relief without the noise and restrictions that come with traditional CPAP.
Modern Products Bring Needed Relief
Sleep apnea occurs when obstructions in the throat prevent air from passing into the lungs or when the brain fails to signal the muscles that control breathing. By increasing air pressure in the throat, CPAP prevents the airway from collapsing to facilitate breathing.
To the chagrin of many, however, traditional CPAP has come with a number of drawbacks, including loud, squealing noises due to improper seals, restrictive sleep positions due to hoses and even pressure marks on the face that persist for hours into the day. Traditional CPAP machines have also been known to keep partners awake, forcing many to sleep in separate bedrooms.
Fortunately, newer devices have put an end to many of these problems. Gone are the days when CPAP devices took up an entire nightstand; modern CPAP devices are now small enough to fit in one hand. There are also a range of mask sizes to choose from, including small, lightweight nasal-style masks and pillow-style masks that fit just beneath the nostrils. These advancements have been a godsend for countless sleep apnea patients, who have struggled for years to gain a peaceful night's sleep due to their condition or the treatment itself.
Seeking Help
Linked to an increased risk of diabetes, depression, heart disease and dementia, sleep apnea is a serious threat to your health. If you have resisted seeking treatment because you've been worried about the practicality and comfort of CPAP therapy, now is a good time to act.
You should also see your doctor for an evaluation if you snore loudly or feel tired even after what seems like full night's sleep. Because sleep apnea causes breathing disruptions that affect sleep quality without always waking a person, many people suffer for years unknowingly. With proper treatment, you can enjoy increased energy, elevated mood and decreased risk of serious health problems.