After years of interrupted sleep, you’ve taken the right measures to treat your sleep apnea. However, despite your best efforts, you’re struggling to tolerate your positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Although CPAP machines have long been considered the ‘gold standard’ of sleep apnea care, they may not be a suitable option for all patients. At Today’s Headache Institute, many patients seek our services for CPAP intolerance as alternative, and possibly improved, treatment outcomes.
What is a CPAP Device?
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. CPAPs are commonly used to prevent obstructive sleep apnea. When the upper airway becomes narrow the muscles relax naturally during sleep. This reduces oxygen in the blood and causes arousal from sleep. The CPAP machine stops the narrowing of the upper airway muscles by delivering a stream of compressed air via a hose to a nose mask or full-face mask. The CPAP keeps the airway open under air pressure so that unobstructed breathing becomes possible, reducing and/or preventing apneas and hypopneas. The other purpose of the CPAP is to push the tongue forward by the air pressure which opens the throat. Snoring is also reduced as a benefit of the increased air pressure.
CPAP is the most commonly used method to treat obstructive sleep apnea. It should be noted that it does not prevent sleep apnea. It only reduces the complications associated with it. When a CPAP is used as directed many patients see a significant change in their sleeping habits. However, the acceptance rate of patients properly wearing a CPAP is around 45% or less.
CPAP Complications
There are many complications from wearing a CPAP that may be keeping you up at all hours of the night, including:
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Mask discomfort
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Difficulty getting proper fit
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Increased headaches
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Nasal dryness and congestion
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Dry mouth
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Increased ear pain & pressure
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Air in stomach creating pain, bloating, & gas build-up
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And more
Alternatives to CPAP
Today’s modern dental appliances offer a more comfortable and easier solution to patients who cannot tolerate a CPAP. In fact, dental sleep apnea mouthpieces are being recommended as the first option for patients with AHI indexes of 35 or lower. At Today’s Headache Institute, current nano-technology allows us to be able to provide dental appliances that are 50% lighter and smaller than regular sleep orthotics. The result? Our patients are able to enjoy a comfortable night's sleep again.
Is your CPAP intolerance keeping you up at night? Rest easy with our alternative treatments for CPAP machines. Contact our professionals at Today’s Headache Institute to learn more. Solve your pain in 6-8 months or we’ll give you your money back.