If you stop and start breathing repeatedly during sleep, you may have a condition called sleep apnea. A CPAP machine can help.
Is It Dangerous to Sleep Without a CPAP?
A CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine provides a constant supply of pressurized air to keep your airways open as you sleep. A fitted mask is placed over the face that has a tube attached to the machine that provides the pressurized air. If you suffer from sleep apnea and don’t use a CPAP, you can be at risk for future health complications.
How Do I Stop My CPAP Mask from Leaking?
Mask leaks mean air is escaping from your mask, and you aren’t receiving the proper air pressure needed to treat your sleep apnea. Stop your mask from leaking by:
Ensure a Proper Mask Fit: Try the mask on in front of your clinician while you’re laying down.
Keep Your Mouth Closed: Mouth leaks can be resolved by using a chin strap or a full-face mask instead of a nasal mask.
Keep the Mask Clean: Keep your mask clean by performing daily and weekly maintenance. A clean mask is essential to ensuring a proper mask fit.
Keep Your Hose in the Proper Position: A CPAP tube holder can help keep the hose in place.
Traditional vs CPAP Pillow: Your sleeping position could contribute to mouth leaks. A pillow specifically designed for sleeping with a CPAP machine can help solve sleep posture issues.
What Can Happen if Sleep Apnea Goes Untreated?
Untreated sleep apnea can have serious consequences, including:
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Heart disease or heart attack
- Type 2 diabetes
- Sleep deprivation
- Accidents and injuries due to extreme fatigue
Does Mild Sleep Apnea Require CPAP?
Some cases of mild sleep apnea could benefit from CPAP, but some can be successfully treated by other methods.
How Many Apneas Per Hour is Normal?
A rate of 0 to 5 sleep apnea events per hour is considered normal.
How Many Times Do You Stop Breathing with Sleep Apnea?
Mild sleep apnea: 5 to 14 sleep apnea events hourly.
Moderate sleep apnea: 14 to 29 events hourly
Severe sleep apnea: 30+ sleep apnea events hourly.
What is the Best Treatment for Mild Sleep Apnea?
A custom oral sleep apnea device worn in your mouth while you sleep can treat mild sleep apnea. The appliance prevents the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat while sleeping.
Can Mild Sleep Apnea Be Cured?
Certain surgical procedures may be able to cure mild sleep apnea. Discuss these options with your sleep specialist doctor.
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, make an appointment today with eos sleep in NYC. Our experienced sleep doctors offer CPAP machines. We’re dedicated to helping you improve the quality of your sleep as well as your overall health.