tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216690262024-02-28T12:30:15.546-08:00Sleep Apnea GuideI have sleep apnea and use this blog to provide unbiased info about sleep apnea to create sleep apnea awareness. If you have sleep apnea, it is important to seek treatment.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-11834837225477531152009-12-19T08:23:00.000-08:002009-12-19T08:27:19.135-08:00Sleep Apnea Guide has moved!! Introducing SleepApneaDave.com!!I've decided to give this sleep apnea blog a new look and have created <a href="http://SleepApneaDave.com">SleepApneaDave.com</a>. All past posts have been migrated over to the new sleep apnea blog and new resources are being added.<br /><br />Please visit <a href="http://SleepApneaDave.com">SleepApneaDave.com</a> and add it to your bookmarks.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-89108095478446388732009-12-17T10:36:00.000-08:002009-12-17T10:36:00.420-08:00Does your sleep apnea CPAP mask hurt your nose?A lot of people with sleep apnea do not do their prescribed treatment because they find that the CPAP mask is uncomfortable. Here's a solution that may make treatment easier for some.<br /><br />A company called SeQual Technologies has joined up with CHI-SAN LLC to make available what looks to be a useful device for those who experience discomfort on the bridge of the nose as a result of the pressure of a CPAP mask.<br /><br />The Sleep Comfort Care Pad is described as intended for patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) who experience pain and discomfort on or around the bridge of their nose associated with using nasal or full face masks. The pad acts as a cushion between the patient’s face and mask, and is simply placed across the bridge of the nose under the mask.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://img.pr.com/release/0912/107512/pressrelease_107512_1260898869.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 172px; height: 250px;" src="http://img.pr.com/release/0912/107512/pressrelease_107512_1260898869.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The pad is reusable and can be cleaned with soap and water.<br /><br />The protective polymer gel pad is composed of USP grade mineral oil, is hypoallergenic, latex and silicone free.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This could prove to be a very useful solution to CPAP mask discomfort.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-34048696648927613982009-12-16T15:13:00.001-08:002009-12-16T15:29:31.318-08:00The Pittsburgh Steelers want you to know about sleep apnea<a href="http://www.thepittsburghchannel.com/sports/21983375/detail.html">Check it out</a>, the Pittsburgh Steelers and ESPN want you to know about sleep apnea. A group of Pittsburgh Steelers and ESPN 1250 Radio members did an event at a Pennsylvania mall in order to increase awareness about sleep apnea.<br /><br />According to the article, Steeler Chukky Okobi has sleep apnea as does cornerback Deshea Townsend's brother. So does ESPN 1250 general manger Mike Thompson.<br /><br />Their goals are similar to this website - to create awareness about sleep apnea. Some of the signs of sleep apnea can include regular:<br /><br />• Daytime sleepiness or dozing off while driving<br />• Falling asleep at inappropriate times or fighting to stay awake after a full night of rest<br />• Loud snoring, gasping or choking<br />• Depression<br />• Irritability or mood swings<br />• Sexual dysfunction<br />• Morning headaches often accompanied by a dry throat<br />• Frequent nighttime urination<br />• Lack of concentration<br />• Memory impairment<br /><br /><a href="http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2733002020015826878GLMWIc"><img src="http://inlinethumb18.webshots.com/42705/2733002020015826878S500x500Q85.jpg" alt="Najeh Davenport"></a><br /><br />What about you? Are you aware of the <a href="http://sleepapneaguide.blogspot.com/2008/06/signs-of-sleep-apnea.html">signs of sleep apnea</a>?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-90559007773239356502009-12-05T07:30:00.000-08:002009-12-05T08:25:37.332-08:00Best sleep apnea booksWhy climb a mountain when you can take a paved road on your sleep apnea treatment journey? The best sleep apnea books are the key to an easier sleep apnea treatment experience, from diagnosis to everyday life.<br /><br />The amount of time a doctor can spend with a patient is limited, yet what a sleep apnea patient should know is wide-ranging. There's a lot to know about sleep apnea.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I wish my doctors said "here, read these books on sleep apnea and call me if you have any questions."</span> <br /><br />Most doctors fail to give this sort of guidance, so I've compiled a list of the best sleep apnea books.<br /><br />If you just learned from your doctor that you have sleep apnea, these books will give you a lot of confidence in dealing with your treatment and will make it easier to know the right questions to ask your doctor.<br /><table border="1" cellpadding="5"><tr><td><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=slpgd-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=1882431057" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></td><td><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=slpgd-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=0763763772" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></td><td><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=slpgd-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=1932603263" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></td></tr><tr><td><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=slpgd-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=059543262X" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></td><td><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=slpgd-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=0764539019" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></td><td><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=slpgd-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=0060742534" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></td></tr><tr><td><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=slpgd-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=1607495791" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></td><td><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=slpgd-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=1903734479" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></td><td><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=slpgd-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=0300085443" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></td></tr></table><br />When I first asked my primary care doctor is there was anything I could do to stop snoring, my doctor asked me a bunch of questions and then signed me up to see a specialist for a sleep study. I had no idea what to expect - sleep apnea was unknown territory. I wish my doctor had handed me a brochure or book or something!<br /><br />Soon I had a diagnosis of severe sleep apnea and started using a CPAP machine. <br /><br />Initially treatment was difficult and the CPAP mask covering my wasn't working out for me because it caused both nasal dryness and it didn't seem to be working. I later switched to a full-face mask and it solved both the nasal dryness and allowed me to breath through my mouth while sleeping. Now I sleep faithfully with a CPAP mask on every night, glad that treatment I have treatment. <br /><br />There was a lot of trial and error to get where I am today. In retrospect, it would have been easier if I had read a few books earlier on in the process.<br /><br />Each of us will have a unique sleep apnea treatment path and set of experiences. Knowing the facts can make the journey an easier path to travel.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-11153432355967936852009-11-08T10:50:00.000-08:002009-11-08T10:50:00.523-08:00Benefits of Excercise if you have Obstructive Sleep ApneaI'm no doctor, but just someone with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) trying to navigate through the mine field of sleep apnea resources to try to find my way through, whether those resources are my doctor, books, magazine or websites about sleep apnea. One thing is clear:<br /><ul><li>There are more benefits to exercising than not if you want to increase your quality of life with sleep apnea.</li></ul>When it comes to weight loss and OSA, there are a lot of viewpoints on the impact of treating sleep apnea. If we are overweight or obese, our doctor will probably tell us that losing weight can potentially reduce our level of obstructive sleep apnea.<br /><br />The American Sleep Apnea Association also <a href="http://www.sleepapnea.org/resources/pubs/treatment.html">points out</a> what you'll read in many places about treatment for sleep apnea. ASAA says that weight loss is not going to be a solution for everyone because even thin people can have OSA, but that additional fat around the neck can be a cause for some patients. For those who are overweight, losing weight can be a way to reduce the severity of the condition in some patients. This is one of those situations where asking your doctor makes sense.<br /><br />But for any of us with sleep apnea, it seems logical that weight loss and exercise are even more important for us, even if it doesn't reduce our level of severity.<br /><br />Why?<br /><br />We are at a greater risk for various conditions, such as heart disease and high blood pressure. One of the problems with treatment is compliance - not doing what the doctor tells you. This means not getting the proper treatment and the risks going up versus full compliance with treatment.<br /><br />Most people have also had sleep apnea for a long time before receiving treatment. For me, I probably had sleep apnea for a good 10-15 years before knowing and getting treatment. And during those years, I was not doing regular exercise and had put on a few pounds. I have to assume that years of damage have had an effect on my heart and other organs and that exercise is a way to help reverse any past damage.<br /><br />It's really not a hard decision to decide if you should exercise or not (as long as your doctor says it is ok). Here are some benefits of regular exercise for :<br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Potential to reduce sleep apnea severity.</span> Enough exercise, combined with the proper diet, and you'll lose weight. Losing weight has the potential in some people with obstructive sleep apnea to reduce the level of severity.<br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stronger immune system. </span> Have you ever had the flu or a bad cold with sleep apnea? Wearing a CPAP machine while you are sick or congested is not fun, believe me. Regular exercise makes for a better immune system, thereby reducing your risk of illness.<br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Healthier heart.</span> A healthier heart means a lower heart rate, lower blood pressure and other benefits. For sleep apnea patients, a healthy heart seems to be extra important.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Reduced stroke risk.</span> There are studies that say exercise reduces the risk of stroke.<br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Increased energy. </span> This is another benefit particularly for patients who still suffer from daytime sleepiness. Extra energy can only be a good thing for everyone.<br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lower stress and more happy</span>. Less stress could potentially mean less chance for depression too, which is a good thing.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stronger muscles, more muscle tone. </span> I've been exercising regularly for several years now and the strength and muscle tone is a great benefit and big motivator because of the positive feelings it brings.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Prevent back injuries. </span> I've read and heard that regular exercise reduces the risk of back injuries, which can be painful and immobilizing. For me, prior to regular exercise, I would have lower back pain when ever I did work around the home involving a lot of movement or lifting. After a lot of regular exercise, including back exercises, my back is a lot stronger and I am a lot less likely to get lower back pain. If you have existing back pain, be sure to check with your doctor first before starting an exercise program.<br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Increase metabolism.</span> This means that your body will process calories faster, so that if you take in more calories than your body needs, it can handle it better than with a lower metabolism, helping to keep your weight from increasing.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sense of accomplishment.</span> With regular exercise, you really feel like your doing some good.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Better use of money.</span> Instead of spending money on going out to a restaurant where you consume way too many calories and perpetuate your weight gain, think about getting a gym membership. Gym membership typically range from $35 to $50 a month and give you access to all sorts of exercise equipment. Want to spend even less? Get a pair of walking shoes and start regularly walking around the neighborhood. Do 2 walks per week and then gradually increase the duration and frequency. You'll be heading in the right direction.<br /></li></ul>Taken together, the benefits of regular exercise improve your overall quality of life with sleep apnea.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-44301328627562657592009-06-30T09:02:00.000-07:002009-06-30T09:12:00.770-07:00Study: CPAP Treatment Linked to Lower Mortality in Stroke Patients with OSAAn interesting article about Obstructive Sleep Apnea and strokes just came out. The article says that CPAP treatment reduces mortality risks for people with OSA who have had a stroke.<br /><br />A researcher quoted in the article also points out that mortality rate increases for OSA patients who have had a stroke but who don't use a CPAP machine. Yet another reason to seek treatment for sleep apnea!<br /><br />One of the challenges of the future is finding ways to ensure CPAP usage compliance amongst stroke patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. It can be a complicated situation.<br /><br />Read the <a href="http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/553742/">article</a> for the specifics of the study results. The article has a link to the original scientific research study results.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-64133679604456677962009-06-28T01:40:00.000-07:002009-06-28T05:43:13.928-07:00Traveling with Sleep Apnea Tip #2 - Packing your CPAP like your life depends on itTraveling somewhere by plane? If you have sleep apnea and use a CPAP for treatment like I do, then I recommend the following tip for airplane travel with a CPAP machine.<br /><br />"Pack your CPAP machine like your life depends on it."<br /><br />Going without treatment puts a damper in a vacation and can also have risks. Getting a replacement CPAP quickly will be a challenge while traveling.<br /><br />I always carry my CPAP and mask in my backpack which I carry the airplane. It gives me comfort. Putting valuables in check-in luggage leaves me with a fear of loss or theft, so carrying it on with me means it never leaves my sight.<br /><br />Also, realize that CPAP machines are delicate. Protect it in a way as to prevent damage from impact or being crushed. Take care as to avoid letting the buttons or display get damaged.<br /><br />Put some sort of padding around it. If your CPAP didn't come with a padded travel case, take a look at padded camera bags as an alternative.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bonus tip:</span> When going through security gates at airports, take your CPAP out of your backpack and put it in a separate bin for scanning (like others do with laptops). Oftentimes, the security team needs to do a quick cotton swab test on CPAPs for some reason. Make it easy for security and they'll be quick.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-71070783596395582022009-06-27T06:43:00.000-07:002009-06-27T19:57:52.311-07:00Traveling with Sleep Apnea Tip #1 - preventing a broken CPAP maskThis tip is for anyone who is using a CPAP machines for sleep apnea treatment. At some point, you will need to travel by airplane with the CPAP machine. <br /><br />This simple tip will keep you from having a bad travel experience and is based on my own experiences learning the hard way:<br /><ul><li>"When traveling by airplane, pack an extra CPAP mask."<br /></li></ul>I learned the hard way on a recent trip. I learned that CPAP masks can be too delicate to stand up to the rigors of airplane travel. My CPAP mask broke. <br /><br />While most CPAP masks are pretty durable, the one point of weakness is at the hinge that connects the upper part of the mask with the lower part of the mask. That's where mine broke.<br /><br />Luckily for me, part of the hinge remained. I could tape it to keep it in place temporarily.<br /><br />I thought I had taken every precaution to prevent the CPAP mask from breaking, but I was wrong. I had put the mask at the top of my carry-on backpack but it somehow still broke.<br /><br />Since a carry-on bag may not have enough room for a back-up mask, put the back-up mask in your check-in luggage. Putting the mask in the middle of clothes in a suitcase gives it protection and is a good place to stash your back-up CPAP mask.<br /><br />So there you have it, clean out an old mask, stash it in your check-in luggage, and have a great flight.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bonus Tip: </span> If you don't have an extra CPAP mask because you are new to using a CPAP or you've thrown away old CPAP masks, take extra precautions. Maybe bring some tape or glue in case your mask does break. Superglue may solve some types of mask cracks.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-28671609285549771852008-07-14T12:48:00.001-07:002008-07-14T12:48:28.303-07:00Facts About Snoring and Sleep ApneaNews-Leader in Springfield, Missouri reports about causes of snoring <a href="http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080714/LIFE04/807140308">here</a>. An interview conducted with Dr. Brian Kim, medical director for the Chest and Sleep Institute of Springfield and of the Missouri Sleep Institute at Citizens Memorial Hospital in Bolivar, reveals several facts about snoring and that snoring does not necessarily mean a person has sleep apnea.<br /><br />Another fact about snoring is that snoring and sleep apnea are both more common in men than in women. However, women tend to snore more as they get older.<br /><br />Want to reduce snoring? Dr. Kim suggests avoiding sleeping on the back as well as weight loss as being common ways to reduce snoring.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-34929389395961840042008-06-30T08:45:00.000-07:002008-06-30T08:45:00.947-07:00New Study on Diabetes and Sleep ApneaDr. Ulysses J. Magalang, from the Ohio State University Medical Center, has done research on the relationship between Type II Diabetes and sleep apnea. Here are some good articles that summarize the study.<br /><br />An articles on EmaxHealth goes into detail <a href="http://www.emaxhealth.com/46/21379.html">here</a> and quotes Dr Magalang as saying "We do not know whether obstructive sleep apnea causes diabetes. What we do know is that patients with sleep apnea have an increased insulin resistance, a hallmark of patients with diabetes and also a known risk factor for heart disease."<br /><br />Sleep expert Dr Jonathan Greenburg provides further commentary <a href="http://apnea-treatment.com/blog/new-reseach-reveals-link-between-sleep-apnea-and-diabetes/">here</a> about Magalang's research and further discusses the relationship between sleep apnea and diabetes. <br /><br />Additional commentary is available on Accessibility.com.au in an article entitles "Looking For A Link Between Sleep Apnea & Diabetes" <a href="http://www.accessibility.com.au/news/looking-for-a-link-between-sleep-apnea-diabetes">here</a>.<br /><br />ChallengeDiatbetes.com also mentions the study <a href="http://challegediabetes.com/general/sleep-experts-seek-sleep-apnea-diabetes-link/">here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-43581956728692127302008-06-28T08:04:00.000-07:002008-06-28T08:04:01.312-07:00Signs of Sleep ApneaThere's a good article <a href="http://www.maryvilledailyforum.com/news/x396299941/Nothing-to-lose-sleep-over">here</a> about a Missouri hospital and how they've added sleep study capabilities to keep up with demand.<br /><br />The sleep center is used for conducting sleep studies to detect sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops during sleep. The article talks about how sleep apnea is often discovered during surgery - at which point the sleep apnea can interfere with the surgery when the patient's irregular breathing lowers oxygen levels. Early detection is key.<br /><br />The article lists many of the signs of sleep apnea including:<br />• Daytime sleepiness or dozing off while driving<br />• Falling asleep at inappropriate times or fighting to stay awake after a full night of rest<br />• Loud snoring, gasping or choking<br />• Depression<br />• Irritability or mood swings<br />• Sexual dysfunction<br />• Morning headaches often accompanied by a dry throat<br />• Frequent nighttime urination<br />• Lack of concentration<br />• Memory impairment<br /><br />If you notice any of these signs, especially if several occur concurrently, talk to your doctor.<br /><br />The article also talks about how sleep studies work.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-24885079179853596572008-06-27T08:00:00.000-07:002008-06-27T08:00:03.992-07:00I'm Too Sexy for My CPAPDr Michael J Breus covers a topic that will make most people blush.<br /><br />The article has a witty title "CPAP: <span style="font-weight:bold;">C</span>annot <span style="font-weight:bold;">P</span>ossibly <span style="font-weight:bold;">A</span>ct <span style="font-weight:bold;">P</span>assionate" and discusses ways to address the potential impacts of a CPAP machine on romantic life.<br /><br />He writes "Let's get real, I don't think it takes a CPAP machine to kill the moment" and points out that the benefits of CPAP treatment far outweigh not getting treatment. Without treatment, those with sleep apnea are much more likely to be tired and tiredness will put an even greater damper on romance.<br /><br />Read the full article <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-michael-j-breus/cpap-cannot-p_b_94346.html">here</a> on the Huffington Post website. The article is Dr Breus' response to a commentary on MSNBC <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23731731/">here</a> about the impact of a CPAP machine on romance. Both are interesting reads.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-4420250065511268172008-06-26T19:55:00.000-07:002008-06-26T19:55:00.396-07:00Are you tired like a zombie?This interesting <a href="http://www.newsday.com/news/health/ny-hssleep0603,0,1504950.story">article</a> talks about the US being a nation of zombies. This nation of zombies is made up of people who are sleep deprived.<br /><br />It points out that some people do not even know they are sleep deprived.<br /><br />Amongst the different causes of sleep deprivation is <a href="http://sleepapneaguide.blogspot.com">sleep apnea</a>, a condition that interferes with normal breathing at night, causing abnormally low levels of oxygen to be breathed in.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-21224681321973547832008-04-06T07:42:00.000-07:002008-04-06T08:09:31.441-07:00Types of CPAP Masks for Sleep Apnea Treatment<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mia3mom/286757974/" title="Cuddly Love (Photo by mia3mom)"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/112/286757974_0003ca9224_m.jpg" title="Cuddly Love (Photo by mia3mom)" alt="Cuddly Love (Photo by mia3mom)" width="240" height="180" align="right" hspace=5 /></a>People with sleep apnea should be aware of the treatment options. Did you know there are several types of CPAP masks?<br /><br />Here's a brief article on the different types of CPAP masks used with CPAP machines for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. The article discusses common triangular CPAP masks and the less common oral masks, nasal pillows and hybrid masks.<br /><br />I've used triangular CPAP masks of both the nose only and nose and mouth variety. The nose mask is the most common type of mask.<br /><br />I used a nose mask for a few years. It was very easy to wear and get used to. The downside for me, with a high pressure setting on my CPAP, is that the nose mask caused dryness in my nasal passages and required me to either use a humidifier or use saline solution a few times a day. <br /><br />A second sleep study revealed that the nose mask left me with the problem of breathing through the mouth. <br /><br />I tried using a chin strap to keep my mouth closed, but that didn't help much, though I only tried one type of strap. There are potentially better chin straps on the market that I have yet to try.<br /><br />I switched to a nose and mouth full face mask. Full face CPAP masks require more adaption time because the masks must be on tighter to prevent air from escaping from the seams. The first several nights for me were interrupted by the bzzzzz sound of air escaping from the seams. Making the straps tighter then became uncomfortable. Getting to the right balance took time. Oh, the joys of severe sleep apnea! <br /><br />After the right balance is achieved, the nose/mouth full face mask worked better in my situation. Each situation is different. This article discusses types of CPAP masks and how the masks are used.<br /><br />View the article <a href="http://www.discoveryarticles.com/articles/96686/1/Cpap-Masks--Finding-The-Right-One/Page1.html">here</a> about the different types of CPAP masks.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-44102710698294830092008-04-05T09:38:00.000-07:002008-04-06T08:43:18.737-07:00Personal Accounts of Sleep Studies and Sleep ApneaBlogger Stevedawg provides a personal account about getting a sleep study done for testing of sleep apnea.<br /><br />He tells of <a href="http://stevedawg.wordpress.com/2008/03/19/my-sleep-study/">getting ready for a sleep study</a>, <a href="http://stevedawg.wordpress.com/2008/03/21/my-sleep-study-part-deux/">doing the sleep study</a>, and <a href="http://stevedawg.wordpress.com/2008/03/27/the-results-are-in/">getting the diagnosis</a>.<br /><br />Blogger Brian also has sleep apnea and has written several personal accounts of his experiences <a href="http://sleep.feedingthefamily.net/">here</a>. He discusses doing the sleep study, trying different masks and challenges with mouth breathing.<br /><br />In another sleep study account, patient Jack tells Action 3 News about his treatment <a href="http://www.action3news.com/Global/story.asp?S=8100796&nav=menu550_2">here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-49605766570725843742008-03-31T17:29:00.000-07:002008-03-31T19:50:31.719-07:00What do the Boston Red Sox and Sleep Apnea have in Common?<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/melanieburger/829888302/" title="Fenway (Photo by smellyknee)"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1018/829888302_97e6655d5c_m.jpg" title="Fenway (Photo by smellyknee)" alt="Fenway (Photo by smellyknee)" hspace=5 align="right" width="240" height="180" /></a>Both the Boston Red Sox and sleep apnea were both mentioned in the same article by Gary Gillis on the Official Boston Red Sox website on MLB.com <a href="http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080327&content_id=2461979&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos">here</a>.<br /><br />Gillis writes about how traveling around the world to play exhibition games in Japan put a strain on Red Sox players' sleep patterns. He goes on to talk about sleeping patterns and how Americans are often sleep deprived.<br /><br />Then he talks about sleep disorders, mentioning sleep apnea: "Caused by soft tissue blocking the airway, apnea more often affects men than women. It can lead to hypertension and increase the risk of stroke." Not mentioned are the many other risks of untreated sleep apnea including heart disease, high blood pressure and, of course, sleep disruption. Sleep disruption causes daytime sleepiness - preventing Red Sox fans from staying awake for the game!<br /><br />A doctor interviewed in the article says that most disorders are treatable and can return a patient back to a normal night's sleep. Here on <a href="http://sleepapneaguide.blogspot.com">Sleep Apnea Guide</a>, <a href="http://sleepapneaguide.blogspot.com/search/label/treatment">sleep apnea treatments</a> are often discussed. Sleep apnea is highly treatable and there are several options.<br /><br />The most common treatment is the use of a CPAP machine (a small device that pushes air down a patient's airway passage through a mask), but I've mentioned a few promising alternative treatments and sleep apnea studies on Sleep Apnea Guide. I've been using a CPAP machine for years. It's not as bad as it sounds, but it takes some time to adjust to it.<br /><br />I am more awake with treatment and ready for the Boston Red Sox to win the World Series again and again.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-17136781777474832032008-03-23T06:23:00.000-07:002008-03-22T07:36:52.441-07:00Demonstration of Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea TreatmentThe Medical News Network put out this almost 30-minute episode all about sleep apnea causes, symptoms and treatments. The interview is with Dr. Brock Rondeau who goes through sleep apnea causes, sleep apnea symptoms and some of the latest treatment options available including oral appliances. <br /><br />What I found interesting was his demonstration of oral appliances that are alternatives to CPAP machines. Listen to what he has to say about oral appliances. An oral appliance may be a better option than a CPAP machine for some people. For children, Dr Rondeau explains that oral appliances are very effective and he shows before and after pictures.<br /><br /><object width="512" height="323"><param name="movie" value="http://d.yimg.com/static.video.yahoo.com/yep/YV_YEP.swf?ver=2.0.45" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="flashVars" value="id=5289631&vid=1562387&lang=en-US&intl=us&thumbUrl=http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/us/sch/cn/v/v4/w485/1562387_240_240.jpeg" /><embed src="http://d.yimg.com/static.video.yahoo.com/yep/YV_YEP.swf?ver=2.0.45" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="512" height="323" allowFullScreen="true" flashVars="id=5289631&vid=1562387&lang=en-US&intl=us&thumbUrl=http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/us/sch/cn/v/v4/w485/1562387_240_240.jpeg" ></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-80091385630716013992008-03-22T08:23:00.000-07:002008-03-22T07:23:03.937-07:00Scary Stats About Sleep ApneaAn article written by Don Gronning entitled "Sleeping your way to health" (<a href="http://www.kvnews.com/articles/2008/03/20/news/doc47e2cbc0bcfa4319720482.txt">view article here</a>) on the Daily Record's website (Ellensburg, Washington) quotes Dr. Geoffrey Greenberg, a sleep apnea specialist, as saying that <span style="font-style:italic;">studies show that of the people who have untreated obstructive sleep apnea, 40% die within 8 years</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">My advice: Don't fear treatment.</span><br /><br />Most people use a CPAP machine, which is simply Continuous Positive Airway Pressure delivered by a small device to a mask that goes over your nose or mouth and nose.<br /><br />I have severe sleep apnea and use my CPAP every night, all night long. It's set on a very high pressure setting. It took some getting use to, yes, but it is not a medicine. I am currently unaware of side effects except nasal passage dryness, which is treated with over-the-counter saline nose spray.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">You are not alone. A lot of people have sleep apnea.</span><br /><br />Dr. Greenberg also points out that 4 to 5% of the American population has sleep apnea and it is more common than diabetes.<br /><br />He reaffirms what I've heard before, that sleep apnea is not necessarily weight related. He states that 10% of sleep apnea sufferers are normal weight.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-28572588923533357152008-03-21T06:26:00.000-07:002008-03-21T07:20:42.688-07:00Sleep Apnea a Problem in ChinaAccording to an article by China Daily (<a href="http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-03/21/content_7830820.htm">here</a>), obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) affects more than 50 million Chinese people.<br /><br />But a lot of people don't take sleep apnea seriously. The article goes on to quote Han Fang, of the People's Hospital of Peking University sleep center, who explains that 80% of the patients the sleep center sees are seriously troubled by sleep apnea. <br /><br />Yet, the articles quotes Fang as pointing out the true issue: "Most of them are transferred by other medical departments to our center - usually in serious condition - rather than turning to us on their own in an early stage."<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">They didn't know.</span><br /><br />The issue is the need to increase sleep apnea awareness. Hopefully, blogs like this one help.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-55932600878205458052008-03-15T13:25:00.000-07:002008-03-15T13:58:14.307-07:00How to Reduce Out-of-Pocket Sleep Study CostsNot insured? Have to pay out-of-pocket?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thesuperstar/1801417579/" title="halloween001 (Photo by Jimmy theSuperStar)"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2274/1801417579_e69c8028cb_m.jpg" title="halloween001 (Photo by Jimmy theSuperStar)" alt="halloween001 (Photo by Jimmy theSuperStar)" width="240" height="180" align="right" hspace="10" /></a>The best way to reduce out-of-pocket sleep study costs is to pretend it is like buying a car. Shop around. Do your homework before choosing a sleep center.<br /><br />Prices can vary from $2500 to $4000 out-of-pocket for a sleep study, according to Express CPAP Supply. That really is like buying a used car. <br /><br />A Google search for "cost of sleep study" reveals many more discussions of the costs for out-of-pocket sleep studies with some people paying more than $5000 (see <a href="http://www.sleepnet.com/apnea123/messages/475.html">here</a> and <a href="http://www.apneasupport.org/viewtopic.php?p=35659">here</a>).<br /><br />Why the variation? Not all sleep studies are created equal. According to St. Joseph Memorial Hospital (see <a href="http://www.stjosephmemorialhospital.org/home.nsf/sjmh/expectduringsleepstudy">here</a>): "Because of the variety of sleep disorders, the required sleep monitoring and evaluation studies may vary and consequently the total cost of the sleep study may also vary."<br /><br />So it pays to talk to your doctor about the options to minimize out-of-pocket sleep study expenses. Maybe you don't need to fancy sleep study. Or maybe your doctor can recommend lower cost sleep centers.<br /><br />Another emerging option is special deals that CPAP supply companies offer. For instance, Express CPAP Supply of San Jacinto, California, recently partnered with a sleep lab to offer lower rates for sleep studies. They offer a $999 sleep study and CPAP system combo. More info on Express CPAP Supply's website <a href="http://www.youneedsleep.com/cpap_store_so__calif_">here</a>.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-8633054761154843972008-03-02T10:05:00.000-08:002008-03-02T10:06:24.776-08:00Another Alternative Treatment for Obstructive Sleep ApneaAn article on WSOC Charlotte discusses alternative treatments to obstructive sleep apnea for patients who are not good candidates for CPAP treatment. The treatment is called the "Advance System", a trademarked system by Aspire Medical, Inc. The treatment is still in clinical trials, but represents a potentially viable alternative sleep apnea treatment for a segment of patients with obstructive sleep apnea.<br /><br />This alternative obstructive sleep apnea treatment involves having a tissue anchor insert alongside a tether and a bone anchor. WSOC outlines the steps involved with this treatment:<br /><blockquote>"First, the tissue anchor is inserted into the tongue and held in place with tiny barbs. Next, the bone anchor is screwed into the jaw, under the chin. Finally, a tether, or cord, is connected to the two implants, tied and tightened. Insertion of the Advance system is a minor surgical procedure that takes about 20 minutes. It can be done under general or local anesthesia. Patients come back two to three weeks after placement to have the tension of the tether adjusted." (Source: WSOC Charlotte)<br /></blockquote>Read the complete <a href="http://www.wsoctv.com/health/15448743/detail.html">News Story here</a> on WSOC's website.<br /><br />Aspire Medical has pictures and a video <a href="http://www.aspiremedical.com/tech_us.html">here</a> of their sleep apnea device that is still in clinical trials.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-29275125327966383182008-02-26T18:26:00.000-08:002008-03-02T10:50:03.179-08:00The Didgeridoo Sleep Apnea TreatmentI had heard of this alternative treatment before but was recently reminded when <a href="http://www.thatsfit.com/2008/02/26/six-crazy-cures-for-what-ails-you/">That's Fit</a> mentioned a Men's Health article. The article by Men's Health is called "<a href="http://www.menshealth.com/cda/article.do?site=MensHealth&channel=health&category=other.diseases.ailments&conitem=0a541ced55e9d010VgnVCM10000013281eac____">6 Crazy Cures</a>" amongst which one is a potential cure for sleep apnea.<br /><br />The treatment involves playing a didgeridoo.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/roadhunter/4046640/" title="Didgeridoo Class (Photo by Topato)"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/4/4046640_21deb6e469.jpg" title="Didgeridoo Class (Photo by Topato)" alt="Didgeridoo Class (Photo by Topato)" height="333" width="500" /></a><br /></div>According to the Men's Health article:<br /><blockquote>"Researchers reporting in the British Medical Journal evaluated 25 people with sleep apnea--a breath-stealing condition caused by flabby throat muscles--and found that those who took 4 months of didgeridoo (DIH-jeh-ree-doo) lessons had about 3 1/2 times less daytime sleepiness than the folks who didn't blow their own horns. The newly minted musicians also snored significantly less." (Men's Health)</blockquote>"Sounds" like a potentially fun treatment. <br /><br />The full results of the study are available <a href="http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/332/7536/266">here</a> on the British Medical Journal website with further commentary by Scientific Daily <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/12/051224094017.htm">here</a>.<br /><br />The study concludes that didgeridoo playing on a regular basis is an effective alternative treatment for those with moderate obstructive<sup> </sup>sleep apnoea syndrome.<br /><br />I wonder if it would help severe sleep apnea sufferers. If playing the didgeridoo regularly could move severe sleep apnea into mild sleep apnea, that would be a really good thing.<br /><br />Then again, have you ever heard the sound a didgeridoo makes? There's an example of a street performer playing a didgeridoo in <a href="http://www.aboutspaintravel.com/aboriginal-australian-music-barcelona-spain">Barcelona, Spain here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-77817464138305656592008-02-24T12:26:00.001-08:002008-02-24T13:53:48.945-08:00Car crash risk increased by sleep apnea says studySleep apnea increases the risk of being in a car crash.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/itsallaboutmich/437598911/" title="Today, while driving my car I realized maybe, just maybe, I´ve been hibernating in life! (Day 51- 365 days) (Photo by Michelle Brea)"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/168/437598911_7bf1e68046.jpg" title="Today, while driving my car I realized maybe, just maybe, I´ve been hibernating in life! (Day 51- 365 days) (Photo by Michelle Brea)" alt="Today, while driving my car I realized maybe, just maybe, I´ve been hibernating in life! (Day 51- 365 days) (Photo by Michelle Brea)" width="431" height="500" /></a><br /><br />That's what an article in Science Daily says. The article talks about a new study by the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and University of British Columbia.<br /><br />The Science Daily articles writes that the study "found that patients with sleep apnea are three to five times more likely to be in a serious car crash involving personal injury. Using data from the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, researchers studied nearly 1,600 people including patients with and without sleep apnea." (Source: Science Daily)<br /><br />The article goes on to discuss how sleep apnea patients are unaware of their sleepiness and how it impacts their driving.<br /><br />This is one of many articles that omits a key factor: treatment. Are the sleep apnea patients in the study getting treatment?<br /><br />Unfortunately, accessing the full research study costs money so taking an educated guess is the next best alternative. It seems common sense that patients who respond to treatment for sleep apnea would suffer less from the symptoms.<br /><br />If a doctor prescribes using a CPAP, the resulting night time breathing should be much better than without treatment. Therefore, symptoms like daytime sleepiness would be minimized. That's just a guess.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Sources:</span><br /><br />University of British Columbia. "Sleep Apnea Doubles Car Crash Risk, Study Shows." <a href="ttp://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/02/080218214401.htm">ScienceDaily</a> 20 February 2008. 24 February 2008<br /><br />An <a href="http://thorax.bmj.com/cgi/content/abstract/thx.2007.085464v1">abstract</a> and the full study appear in the journal called Thorax Journal.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-35483568446906121202008-02-20T11:53:00.000-08:002008-02-20T08:12:57.713-08:00Video: Introduction to Sleep Apnea from iVillageIf you want a good introduction to sleep apnea, iVillage covered the topic on their TV show and you can watch the video right here. I think it is a great introduction and presents some of the realities and reasons why diagnosis and treatment should be sought for those who suffer the symptoms.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ep9omb9vt3M&rel=1"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ep9omb9vt3M&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21669026.post-66595918553827828722008-02-18T08:43:00.000-08:002008-02-18T07:43:40.333-08:00Video: New Sleep Apnea Public Service AnnouncementJust released by the American Sleep Apnea Association, this video will be on TV as part of the upcoming National Sleep Apnea Awareness Week from March 3-8, 2008. Why wait? Watch it now on YouTube:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kVjc5CObdpo&rel=1"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kVjc5CObdpo&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br />The ASAA's goal is to "to educate and raise awareness on sleep apnea, treatment, medical information, and resources". See their additional resources on <a href="http://www.sleepapnea.org">www.sleepapnea.org</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0