What Is Sleep Apnea

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Is it possible to have sleep apnea and insomnia at the same time?
   I have been suffering with sleep apnea for months now. After waiting three stressful weeks for the machine to arrive, I used it but only managed to get 3 hours of sleep. I also noticed, that before I had the machine my average time spent sleeping decreased. Tonight I am fully awake and I cannot sleep at all. Is it possible to have sleep apnea and insomnia together? I have serious depression already, so I think that this is a logical explanation. What do I do?

   • ANSWER:
     Your not alone friend. I have both as you do and what I suggest is now that you have the machine, you go to your doctor and get a sleep aid that can be accompanied by an antihistamene. Let me tell you I am on Trazadone for sleep and hydroxyzine which is the antihistamene. Together they work wondurfully. Also you may be overweight which many are who have apnea. Try not to drink too much water and if you are getting up in the night to urinate often then ask your doctor for a diuretic which will reduce the overall body fluid in the body. You may want to look into the possibility of type 2 diabetes. Hope this helps. Hang in there it gets better.
     p.s. I am awake by choice as i was off yesterday catnapping all day in the rainy weather. Just so you don't ask yourself, Why is he not asleep then?" LOL

2. QUESTION:
   What do you know about sleep apnea surgeries?
   I hate the mask (as many people do). I have severe obstructive sleep apnea. I am considering surgical options but I've been told the only one that may work for me is the mandibular advancement (when they break your jaw and move it forward). Has anyone had this before? What were your experiences? Did it work? Do you know of any other surgery that may help? Oral appliances?

   • ANSWER:
     I had a mandibular advancement back in the day when they still wired your mouth shut for 6 weeks. (Many surgeons now opt for a screw and plate closure along with tight rubber bands that allow more mouth movement and a little more eating options!)

     I did have about a year of orthodontics before I could have it done, incidentally, so it was not a quick fix by any means.

     The surgery itself sounded far worse than it actually was. The most pain I had was like a dull headache in my jaw area. Pain management was not a problem at all. I did miss eating what I wanted and lost significant weight. (What I would do to have that happen now!!!) I missed yawning the most, though!

     It did fix my sleep apnea completely. I have never even snored since. It was well worth it for me.

     My 5 year old had tonsils and adenoids removed for the same reason (sleep apnea) with good results as well. I had previously had that surgery, and it was much more painful than the mandibular advancement.

     I hope this helps! Best of luck to you!

3. QUESTION:
   What is the best solution for sleep apnea?
   I have sleep apnea but Im sure i do not want to use a c-pap or an a-pap machine. Just looking for the next best solution.

   • ANSWER:
     Someone else already said it, but it should be repeated. Get the CPAP.

     I never thought I would be able to sleep with one. For about a year I told myself that it would not help me sleep, that it would make it more difficult for my wife to sleep, that it would be uncomfortable...

     The very first night I used CPAP it felt a little akward, but by the end of the first week ALL of my symptoms had disappeared. It has been three years now and I have no more headaches, no more muscle cramps, no more waking up several times a night with horrible heartburn or horrible sweating. My blood pressure and cholesterol have returned to normal. In one week I went from a 25 year old in danger of having a heart attack to a well rested guy who can just enjoy life again. I cannot even begin to explain how much better you will feel.

     Get the CPAP and try it for a week. Just 7 days. If you can't do it, talk to your doctor. There is a surgical procedure that can reduce apnea, however less then 30% of the people who have it see any significant change and most people must have the surgury repeated throughout their lives to stay symptom free.

     Most importantly, do not ignore this condition. If you do you will continue to gain weight, the headaches will get worse. Your blood pressure will continue to skyrocket. You will develop holes in your stomach and esophogus from the acid. You will have a potentially fatal heart attack. Left untreated and supervised by a doctor this condition will kill you.

     Get the CPAP.

4. QUESTION:
   What is sleep apnea and how is it diagnosed in children?
   My daughter wakes up every morning at 4am she is 1 and a half someone has suggested to me that it could be sleep apnea. What are the symptoms of this and what is it? Thanks

   • ANSWER:
     Sleep apnea is any period of time where ther is no breathing while asleep. Usuly the time period is a minimum 10 seconds.

     The most common kind of sleep apnea is called Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome. It is characterized by repetitive episodes of upper airway obstruction that occur during sleep, usually associated with a reduction in blood oxygen saturation.

     symptoms:
     excessive daytime sleepiness
     frequent episodes of obstructed breathing during sleep. (The patient may be unaware of this symptom -- usually the parents are extremely aware of this).

     Associated features may include:
     snoring - loud, squeaky, raspy
     nocturnal snorting, gasping, choking (may wake self up)
     restless sleep
     heavy irregular breathing
     excessive perspiring during sleep
     severe bedwetting
     bad dreams (nightmares)
     night terrors
     sleeps with mouth open, causing a dry mouth upon awakening
     chest retraction during sleep in young children (chest pulls in)
     sleeps in strange positions
     confusion upon awakening
     morning headaches
     unrefreshing sleep
     excessive daytime sleepiness
     may develop high blood pressure
     may be overweight or underweight
     learning problems
     excessive irritability
     change in personality
     depression
     difficulty concentrating
     Developmental problems
     failure to thrive or grow
     frequent upper respiratory infections
     hyperactive behavior

     How serious is sleep apnea?
     It is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. The risks of undiagnosed obstructive in children with sleep apnea include learning problems, developmental problems, behavior problems and in some cases, failure to grow, heart problems and high blood pressure. In addition, obstructive sleep apnea causes daytime sleepiness that can result in personality changes, lost productivity in school and interpersonal relationship problems. A child with sleep apnea may lag behind in many areas of development. The child may become frustrated and depressed. The severity of the symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe.

     How does the doctor determine if my child has Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

     A sleep test, called polysomnography is usually done to diagnose sleep apnea. There are two kinds of polysomnograms. An overnight polysomnography test involves monitoring brain waves, muscle tension, eye movement, respiration, oxygen level in the blood and audio monitoring. (for snoring, gasping, etc.) The second kind of polysomnography test is a home monitoring test. A Sleep Technologist hooks your child up to all the electrodes and instructs you on how to record your child's sleep with a computerized polysomnograph that you take home and return in the morning. They are painless tests that are usually covered by insurance.

     How is Sleep Apnea treated?

     In children, simply removing the tonsils or adenoids may take care of the problem.

     Sleep Apnea in children where removing the tonsils or adenoids does not take care of the problem is usually treated with a C-PAP (continous positive airway pressure) or Bi-Level positive airway pressure. C-PAP is a machine that blows air into your nose via a nose mask, keeping the airway open and unobstructed. Bi-Level has an inspiratory pressure that is higher than the expiratory pressure. The sleep doctor will "prescribe" the pressure and a home healthcare company will set it up and provide training in its use and maintenance.

     When your child needs a machine, it can be quite intimidating. A C-PAP machine requires some care and a period of adjustment, but the benefits of C-PAP therapy are worth the inconvenience. C-PAP is NOT a venilator, it merely keeps the airway open so your child can breathe easily. It is not a complicated machine like some mentioned in the above link to kidshealth organization, nor do you have to worry about 24-hour nursing care or your child being in intensive care unless there are more complicated problems. A one night stay in a sleep clinic to monitor the child's breathing is generally all that is required. Here are some tips if your child comes home on a machine. A C-PAP machine may be "prescribed" for your child. A home healthcare company that contracts with your insurance will provide the machine and show you how it works and how to clean and maintain it.

     Find out about the different manufacturers who provide respiratory equipment for obstructive sleep apnea.

     Some children have facial deformities that may cause the sleep apnea. It simply may be that their jaw is smaller than it should be or they could have a smaller opening at the back of the throat. Some children have enlarged tonsils, a large tongue or some other tissues partially blocking the airway. Fixing a deviated septum may help to open the nasal passages. Removing the tonsils and adenoids or polyps may help also. Children are much more likely to have their tonsils and adenoids removed to solve the problem.

     The only available treatment for severe apnea until the early 1980's was a tracheostomy. A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure where a small hole is cut in the neck and a tube with a valve is inserted into the hole. During the day the valve is closed so the person can speak. At night, the valve is opened, thus avoiding the obstructions. This procedure is only used today as a last resort or to avoid respiratory distress, or other serious medical complications (Your child would have to be extremely sick to require this).

5. QUESTION:
   Why does sleep deprivation make the symptoms of sleep apnea worse?
   I recently did a sleep study and found that I have obstructive sleep apnea and it causes me to wake up during the night - often many times. I go through cycles where the problem gets much worse, one night of poor sleep leads to another worse night of interupted sleep, and so on - sometimes for a month or even more. I have heard that sleep deprivation makes the symptoms of sleep apnea much worse, and as I am searching for the right treatments, I was just interested in finding out why - what is the mechanism that causes this? Very strenuous exercise during the day or early evening can have the same effect. Thank you for any insights.

   • ANSWER:
     Actually, sleep apnea is a condition where you actually stop breathing during sleep. For most people, this causes them to wake up quickly; for others, it's a life-threatening situation (especially for babies and small children). I imagine if you're not getting much rest, when you do finally get to sleep your body is so tired it's hard for your body to wake up when you stop breathing. Also, even though your body eventually trains itself to sleep lightly in order potentially avoid apnea, when YOU finally get some sleep your body falls into a deeper sleep. This makes it harder for your body to avoid apnea. I would advise you to get plenty of rest whenever possible. I believe you should obtain a sleep apnea monitor from your physician. This will sound an alarm to wake you up when you stop breathing, or if your oxygen saturation level drops below a certain percentage. This may alleviate some of your anxiety and help you sleep better at night. Just a thought. Good luck.

6. QUESTION:
   What is the best health tool to help sleep apnea?
   I know there are tools and machines to treat sleep apnea,,which do you recommend that I can order online that isn't a discomfort?
   Yes.. I;ve heard of apnea monitors but which brand?
   I get worried when I hear my father snoring then he doesn't breathe for 10 seconds then he takes a deep breath in

   • ANSWER:
     1 in 5 adults suffer from sleep apnea. It can be very dangerous so if you suspect sleep apnea is a problem it's best to see a doctor immediately.

     The question is about home remedies. This is not medical advice only a few possibilities to lessen the symptoms of sleep apnea.

     Lose weight - eat less and exercise more
     Lower blood pressure
     Stop smoking
     Stop the cause of heartburn
     No alcohol or sedatives before going to sleep.
     Keep regular sleeping times - sleep on your side
     Raise the head of the bead
     Dental appliances can sometimes help
     Use a humidifier
     Keep sinuses clear
     Stablize blood sugar

     Sleep apnea can affect anyone at any age, even children. However, risk factors include:
     * Male gender
     * Being overweight
     * Being over the age of forty
     * Having a large neck size (17 inches or greater in men and 16 inches or greater in women)
     * Having larger tonsils
     * Having a family history of sleep apnea

     In mild cases of sleep apnea, conservative therapy may be all that is needed. Conservative approaches include:
     * Lose weight
     * Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills
     * Change sleep positions to promote regular breathing
     * Stop smoking. Smoking can increase the swelling in the upper airway which may worsen both snoring and apnea.
     * Avoid sleeping on your back

     The most commonly performed surgical procedures for sleep apnea include:
     * Somnoplasty: A minimally invasive procedure to reduce the soft tissue in the upper airway.
     * Nasal surgery: Correction of nasal obstructions such as a deviated septum.
     * Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): A procedure that removes soft tissue on the back of the throat and palate, increasing the width of the airway at the throat opening.
     * Mandibular maxillar advancement surgery: Invasive surgery to correct certain facial abnormalities or throat obstructions that contribute to sleep apnea.

7. QUESTION:
   What other problems could be mistaken for sleep apnea?
   I have many symptoms of sleep apnea but my sleep study shows that it is not an issue. I am tired all the time, no energy or motivation. Depression and anxiety are a major problem. I wake up many times a night feeling like I cannot catch my breath, like my chest is very heavy and not getting enough air/oxygen. What other conditions could cause these symptoms?

   • ANSWER:
     Did they check your limb movements while you were in for the sleep study? Periodic Limb Movement Syndrome & Restless Leg Movement Syndrome can both create excessive daytime sleepiness, as can Idiopathic Hypersomnia.

     Depression and thyroid problems should also be ruled out. Sleep issues can affect mood and depression issues can affect sleep. It's often difficult to tease the two apart.

     Because of the breathing problem, allergies and asthma should also be looked at as the potential cause.

8. QUESTION:
   What are some treatments for sleep apnea?
   My boyfriend has sleep apnea and snores. It has gotten progressively worse. I am not sure what to do. it seems when i elbow him, he stops temporarily but not long enough for me to fall alseep. It is often so back that it not only prevents me from sleeping but, once i fall asleep, it wakes me up again. HELP!

   • ANSWER:
     Sleep apnea should be diagonsed from a reputable sleep clinic. There may be another reason for his snoring such as weight etc.
     The usual treatment is sleeping with a positive air flow machine (I think it is called Cpac. If he stops breathing his oxygen level goes down and it can be a very dangerous health condition. Have him see a Dr. that specializes in sleep problems.

9. QUESTION:
   Can sleep apnea cause palpitations during the day?
   My heart skips beats all through the day, and my
   heart rate stays well above one hundred all of the
   time. I have been to a cardiologist, and he gave me
   a stress test and a ultrasound of my heart. Every
   thing came back normal. So, I would like to know
   what is causing this because it is driving me crazy!!
   I have a history of sleep apnea, but I am not sure if
   this is the problem.

   • ANSWER:
     Untreated sleep apnea can cause all sorts of problems, both physical and emotional. Your organs, such as your heart, simply do not get enough oxygen to function well. It may be that you also have anxiety, which can also cause palpitations. You really ought to be tested for sleep apnea in a sleep lab, and then get a CPAP machine to wear over your nose at night. You will feel better within a week or so, and the distressing symptoms will go away. BEEN THERE, DONE THAT. My very best wishes to you.

10. QUESTION:
    How can I remove mental fog due to years of sleep apnea?
    I feel like my mind is weak because I had sleep apnea all through school. I am in my mind 20's and have sleep apnea due to the structure of my body (I am not overweight which is the usual cause). I did ok in school but I just feel like I didn't absorb everything I needed to. What would you do? I know use C-PAP and have been for a few month and am feeling a lot better. Any advice would help. Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      yoga or martial arts(from a good school where they teach mind to focus and not only combat)

11. QUESTION:
    What are some books I can read to research the mental issues caused after a person has sleep apnea?
    I am doing an assignment on the mental conditions caused after a person is diagnosed with sleep apnea. This means what type of issues they mentally encounter as a result of sleep apnea (such as depression, changes the must do in their environment etc.) And I would like some literature to read and information that Sleep Apnea causes that most would not be aware to know about.

    • ANSWER:
      there are tons of sites dedicated to sleep ( after all you spend like 1/3 of your life doing it.)

      jsut google " sleep book"
      or "sleeping disorder"

      you will have more than you can read .

12. QUESTION:
    What exactly is scarring from a septoplasty that causes sleep apnea?
    I had septoplasty they think I have scarring that is now causing sleep apnea how is that possible my roof of my mouth vibrates and my snoring increased after the septoplasty. What happened? He is doing a sleep study but cant you tell some other way?
    Is this a sign of a bad surgeon? Move septum vibrates too and the roof of mouth only when I sleep? Im not fat it was the surgery

    • ANSWER:
      Sleep apnea is an obstruction somewhere in the airway. It can be caused by a number of things. Scar tissue is very likely cause. Sleep apnea surgery does not work for many people because the scarring is actually worse than the original problem

      My question to you is did you snore before your nose job. If so you probably had OSA previously. Many people do.

      Sleep apnea is found in people of all sizes and shapes. Kids get SA as well.

      When you have the sleep study, you can ask many questions to the sleep techs and the doctor at the follow up.

      Best wishes

13. QUESTION:
    What are some ways for me to get rid of sleep apnea?
    I've been told I need to wear a little mask attached to a small machine for my sleep disorder. What are some ways to get rid of sleep apnea? I know one way is to lose weight. My goal is to lose at least 20 pounds.

    • ANSWER:
      Colon cleaning is the new method to shed weight. Researchers have illustrated the point that not all unwanted weight is thanks to additional fat, a great deal of weight basically rests there in your colon, and all you need to do is flush it out. http://galips.bestweightloss4u.info has a risk free trial on currently, give it a try out, you could shed as much as 20 pounds!

14. QUESTION:
    What alternatives are effective for sleep apnea, besides CPAP?
    I can't afford a CPAP machine right now. Are there any other alternatives that help with sleep apnea? I've tried a dental device before, but it hurts my jaw and teeth too much. Surgery is also not an option right now due to the cost. Is there anything else that can be done? I'm trying to lose weight, so no need to tell me that, either.

    • ANSWER:
      It may be worth revisiting the sleep apnea mouthpiece option. If you can get it into hot water before putting it in for the first time it should mould to your features better and be less uncomfortable

15. QUESTION:
    what is the mortality rate for patients with severe sleep apnea?
    ___ out of ____ people die from severe sleep apnea. (or any other statistics about mortality rate)

    what is the life expectancy with proper treatment?

    • ANSWER:
      There is a lot of undiagnosed sleep apnea out there so your first question is difficult to answer. People who fall asleep at the wheel because of sleep apnea and die in a crash would be in a different statistics. People who die of heart disease because of damage from high bp caused by sleep apnea fall in a different category.

      You second question is also difficult to answer. It depends on when the person was diagnosed and what is their co morbidity's. Does treatment save lives, I would say definitely. It saved mine. I was diagnosed in my 30s and am 100 percent compliant.

16. QUESTION:
    can a person with sleep apnea still work rotating shifts and be alright?
    where i work we work rotating shifts. we change every 3 months. so i guess what i'm asking is if a person has sleep apnea can they still work all shifts?

    • ANSWER:
      Yes, if they stay awake during the shifts. The problem is that apnea often makes you tired during the day. Try using a CPAP at night.

17. QUESTION:
    What is your personal experience with sleep apnea?
    At my doc's request, I did a sleep study last week.

    Doc called me today, said I have "severe sleep apnea."

    I said, can't I just lose weight? (I could lose 60 pounds before I get near "normal" sized.) He said it is "not enough" right now.

    Got an appt to see him next week.

    Anyone had any personal experience with this? Any advice comments or suggestions?

    • ANSWER:
      In addition to being a Respiratory Therapist, I also have to wear CPAP every night. It does take a little getting used to... I woke up several nights with having pulled the mask off. It took me approximately a little over a month to get used to it. It takes effort but it is well worth it. I now cannot even nap without my cpap on because I feel so much better with it.

      The reason why I choose to wear CPAP is because of the damage sleep apnea has been shown to do to one's heart. Obstructive Sleep Apnea, if left untreated can cause right sided heart failure. Currently, there is no proven treatment for right sided heart failure (cor pulmonale).

      It might be a pain to get used to, but it is well worth it, in my opinion as a CPAP wearer and an RRT.

18. QUESTION:
    How can I repair damage to my mind from years of sleep apnea? I have had it my whole life and didn't know?
    I feel like my mind is weak because I had sleep apnea all through school. I am in my mind 20's and have sleep apnea due to the structure of my body (I am not overweight which is the usual cause). I did ok in school but I just feel like I didn't absorb everything I needed to. What would you do? I know use C-PAP and have been for a few month and am feeling a lot better.

    • ANSWER:
      Sleep Apnea is a serious condition and can cause or worsen lots of physical problems like high blood pressure and hart disease but has not been shown to have any long-term effects on brain function. Stay with your C-PAP though because it could save your life over the long run.

19. QUESTION:
    Can sleep apnea cause headaches during the day?
    I have sleep apnea...or atleast I think I do. People tell me that when I sleep, I stop breathing for awhile and make noises like I am choking. Is this sleep apnea? And if it is, does it cause headaches throughout the day? Because I have headaches almost everyday and I can't think of what causes them.

    • ANSWER:
      You kind of have 2 questions here so to answer, yes, when you stop breathing when you're sleeping it is typically referred to as sleep apnea. The noise may be you 'catching' your breath when you do start breathing again. Also, since the brain/body is being deprived of oxygen AND you don't sleep near as well with apnea as you would without this condition, your headaches could be caused by either the lack of oxygen, or the severe lack of sleep, or a combination of both. You should see your doctor and have a sleep study done. Then you can take steps to resolve the problem.

20. QUESTION:
    what is the best cure for sleep apnea?
    I've been diagnosed with sleep apnea. What is a good way to get cured ot if? Does smoking affect it? Does weight?

    • ANSWER:
      im a sleep tech (working right now) and i will say that the best way to treat apnea is with the cpap/bipap machine (google it). weight can play a factor so if u loose weight it will help. usually after going on the cpap machine you will feel better rested,more energetic and willing to exercise and loose wieght. the more wieght you loose you will need less pressure and hopefully not need the machine anymore. but somtimes thin people have apnea too and it may be due to excess tissue in the throat that can be removed with surgery, but it is painful, and does not always work and you may need to go to cpap therapy anyhow. it may be the structure of your neck/jaw (many asians have apnea problems) this is somting you cant really do much about. If your apnea is mild and consists of mostly snoring, you can try the oral appliance whitch is like wearing a retainer and it pulls your lower jaw forward. you get that at the dentist. its expensive and not all insurance covers it and it will only work if you are mild or just snore. hope this helps:)

21. QUESTION:
    Should I go to the doctor to see about snoring/sleep apnea?
    I'm fifteen years old and my friends tell me I sleep really weird.. I stop snoring for like 3 minutes then I start doing this whistling thing and this goes on all night long. I have super bad sinuses so could it be sleep apnea? What can doctors do if it is sleep apnea?
    Oh, and after three minutes, I gasp for air they say. My family even notices.

    • ANSWER:
      Go to your doctor and see about a referral to a sleep clinic. They hook you up to a whole bunch of wires that monitor you as you sleep. Afterwards, they may suggest a c-pap machine which consists of a mask that you wear to bed and it forces oxygen into your lungs while you sleep. Also, if you quit breathing at night while you are sleeping, not good - that is what the c-pap machine is for.
      Ask your parents to schedule you an appt and go and talk to the doctor!!
      Good luck!

22. QUESTION:
    How do I know if I have sleep apnea?
    My wife says I drive her crazy because I snore so much. Her friend said I might have sleep apnea. Anybody know what it is and what are the symptoms?

    • ANSWER:
      Sleep apnea is like everyone said, you stop breathing throughout the night. The symptoms are really loud snoring. Some basic information about sleep apnea is found in the article below. My father has it and he has to wear a breathing mask if he sleeps. The best way to find out if you have it is to consult your doctor but before you do it couldn't hurt to do some background info on sleep apnea to compare your symptoms. Just know there's a very good chance you're perfectly fine no matter what the internet says!!!

23. QUESTION:
    What mask is best for sleep apnea?
    I have just recently been diagnosed with moderate sleep apnea. I am not a mouth breather. I like to wear my glasses at night and read until I get sleepy. I hate headpieces. What mask is best for people like me?

    • ANSWER:
      I like the comfort curve by Respironics, you can find it online and it's a lot less expensive than you would pay in any supply store.

24. QUESTION:
    My husband has just been diganois with sleep apnea?
    My husband has just been diganois with sleep apnea. Now is on permanent Rear D and non deployable. I dont want him to be deployed, but my question is, will his career suffer in any way. He wants to retire from the military, but now we dont know what is going to happen. Help, please!

    • ANSWER:
      The retirement is a good option, but if we taking into account that sleep apnea can be treated as long as your husband has a treatment (CPAP for example), then I think is not going to happen.

25. QUESTION:
    what's the correlation between sleep apnea and a brain aneurysm if any?
    what's the correlation between sleep apnea and a brain aneurysm? or do they have an effect on one another and if so what is it?

    • ANSWER:

26. QUESTION:
    What is the best mask to use for sleep apnea?
    I understand their are newer versions of sleep masks to use for sleep apnea suffers. Any information

    • ANSWER:
      I think the best mask for you would depend on what you can tolerate having on your face.

      There are 3 different types of masks for CPAP's: Full face masks, nasal masks and nasal pillows.

      In my opinion the best full face mask out there is a Resmed Ultra Mirage, or a Resmed Mirage Quattro. The reason I feel that they are the best if because of the ease of removal. They have clips in the front of the mask versus some of the other brands that just use a ball and hook closure method. Full face masks are great if you don't have facial hair, and you sleep with your mouth open (which CPAP doesn't always alleviate), or if you have frequent sinus problems that keep your nose clogged. The down side to them is that if you toss and turn a lot they are hard to keep a seal with. If you are claustrophobic at all- then you wouldn't like a full face mask.

      Nasal masks are good for patients who want a mask that isn't nearly as much a hassle as full face masks. They don't cover as much of your face, and you can use them with a chin strap if you have a problem keeping your mouth closed. There are several good ones, but my favorite would have to be a Comfortgel. The ring that touches your face is made of gel, and according to my patients is comfortable. The down side is that that gel breaks down pretty quickly, and the mask needs to be replaced about every 6 months. A good alternative is a Comfort Fusion. The ring is made out of silicone, and can be replaced without having to get a whole new mask.

      The hottest item available now is called a nasal pillow. There are several brands out there, but my favorite (and the favorite of my patients) is called an Optilife Nasal Pillow. This mask has 2 small straps that come down the side of your face, a built in chin strap, and small pillows that fit inside your nose. It's lightweight, great if you toss and turn- and doesn't cover much of your face at all. Another couple of nasal pillows that are out there- and are worthless- are the Resmed "Swift" nasal pillows, and the Breeze Sleep Gear. Don't waste your time on those!

      There are some new forms of masks out there as well. One is called a Resmed Mirage Liberty. It has nasal pillows, and a mask that covers your mouth all in one piece. I'm not really fond of them, but I do know that they are available.

      Whatever you decide on, make sure that it's comfortable. If you don't like your mask you won't use your machine, and there are lots of options available through most DME companies. I would ask to speak to one of their Respiratory Therapists since the RT's will know the most about your choices. Good luck to you!

27. QUESTION:
    What is the best way for me to sell a CPAP machine(used for Sleep Apnea)?
    I have a CPAP machine used for Sleep Apnea. I no longer use it, as I have found relief using a SnoreGuard. I have tried to sell it locally to my city on Craigslist. This has proven ineffective. The original cost was about 00. I would sell it for starting price of 0. Any ideas of other better reached selling websites?
    Thank You!!

    • ANSWER:

      http://www.secondwindcpap.com/

      From what I can see they buy and sell cpap machines.

28. QUESTION:
    what is the best anesthia to use if you have sleep apnea?
    Since sedatives make the throat close up, and that is a problem for people with sleep apnea, what drugs can be used during a tooth extraction- thanks

    • ANSWER:

29. QUESTION:
    For those living with someone with sleep apnea, how can you get used to it?
    I need some tips on living with someone with sleep apnea. My father was diagnosed while he was in prison with sleep apnea and was on a cpap machine. When he was released he was not on a cpap machine and has snored horribly, keeping me up all night. I've tried to talk him into doing a sleep study so he can get a cpap machine but he has told me numerous times that he wants to wait until he loses weight and gets his diabetes under control. His diabetes is under control, but he is still convinced that he will stop snoring once he loses weight. He doesn't realize that he snored just as bad as he is now when he was a healthy weight.

    My room is right next to his, the walls are paper thin, I am losing so much sleep I don't know what to do anymore. Can anyone with this kind of experience give me some tips on how to get used to it?

    • ANSWER:
      If he waits until he loses weight, he could die from the apnea. He needs to use a CPAP and then when he DOES lose weight, he may not need it any longer.
      you could take a benadryl before bed and it might make you so drowsy you won't have a choice but to go to sleep.

30. QUESTION:
    My dad jus got diagnosed with sleep apnea what should i worry about?
    My dad is 65 and I was just told today that he has sleep apnea and I worry about my dad a lot can this cause him to not wake up from his sleep? What do I have to kno about this??

    • ANSWER:

31. QUESTION:
    What is a cure for sleep apnea outside of ?
    having a machine. I took a pulmonary test the doc says I have sleep apnea. Any cure outside of the breathing machine?

    • ANSWER:
      weight loss if you are overweight, surgery to pull your tongue or jaw forward if it is obstructive sleep apnea.

32. QUESTION:
    What reason besides sleep apnea could be causing severe sleepiness?
    My CPAP is not making the severe sleepiness go away. I get so sleepy I trip over things and am like being drunk. Yes-the sleep apnea was severe.

    • ANSWER:
      ask your homecare company to put you on a auto-titrating cpap machine for 2-3 weeks, it will record your optimal cpap pressure and let you know how your mask is fitting and your leak factor,perhaps you need to use a heated humidifer if you are not already, nd maybe you need to try a different interface like a full face mask or nasal pillows. your pressure may not be accurate, you may have restless leg syndrome, although your PSG should have picked this up.
      My best guess is you have poor sleep hygiene, you should go to bed the same time 7 days a week, exercise daily, proper diet, and use the bedroom only for sleep and intimacy- no reading or tv, computer in bed. Stress in your life can also leed to poor sleep, bruxism or grinding of teeth, an improperly warm sleep environment, poor mattress, sleeping with disruption , IE dog, sleep partner, children can all result in poor sleep.
      Hope this helps.

33. QUESTION:
    What should I do about sleep apnea?
    I have mild sleep apnea and I have tried every kind of cpap mask there is, but I can't sleeping with one on. Are there any other options besides a cpap?

    • ANSWER:
      There's oral appliances that push your lower jaw forward and keep your airway open. Try the link below..

      http://www.ihatecpap.com/oral_appliance.html

      Hope this helps.

34. QUESTION:
    Can anyone help me with a sleep apnea problem with my 6 week old son?
    I think my son may have sleep apnea. He stops breathing sometime, just for a few seconds, and he gasps for air. My husband has sleep apnea and I know what it is like. I asked my son's doctor about it and he said it might just be reflux and switched his formula. I would just like to know it anyone else has a child this small with sleep apnea and it this sounds like what might baby might be experiencing.

    • ANSWER:
      I have sleep apnea, and had the same worries when my son was born. I would listen to his sleeping, and worry at each missed breath. I discussed it with his pediatrician, who suggested that I stop worrying.

      He is now nearly a teenager. I won't be surprised if he develops sleep apnea as he ages, but it hasn't been a problem for him yet. In his case, there was no cause for worry when he was a baby and small child.

35. QUESTION:
    I need to buy a baby monitor for sleep apnea but have no idea which one to get and what it would do?
    I need to buy a baby monitor for sleep apnea but have no idea which one to get and what it would do?
    What monitor would you recomend?
    Not sure why bubs is having apnea episodes but it could just be from relux?
    Bubs is 4 days old.
    *sorry, its ment to say reflux*

    • ANSWER:
      get the one that has the video monitor

36. QUESTION:
    Is there a new device for sleep apnea sufferers?
    One of my co-workers heard about a new device on the radio one day, but could not remember what it was called. I have tried the CPAP machine and the oral appliance. I found out I have a deviated septum and plan to get that fixed, but thought I'd check out what is new in treating sleep apnea.

    • ANSWER:
      I don't know anything about a new device in treating sleep apnea. I read a lot about treatments for sleep apnea patients, and I should know something about it. Maybe if you could tell me more about this device...

37. QUESTION:
    how do you know if your infant has sleep apnea?
    its really humid and stuffy down in the south and i am allergic to molds and ragweed. well i also have noticed when my son falls asleep it is as he snores a bit then he stops for like 3 seconds and then he breathes again? can this be sleep apnea or something? sometimes he cries for a second or two then he goes to sleep. what do you think it is?

    • ANSWER:
      Yes it is possiable and he might go out of it. my nephew was like that for a while. we just laid him on his stomach when he slept at night and it seemed to work. he didn't wake up in the night and he stopped snoring eventually. There isn't anything to worry about, but if you want to double check the next time you take him to the doctor, ask the doctor.
      Hope this helps

38. QUESTION:
    What are some stats on sleep apnea?
    Hi, this is Ali and Gabby and we are doing a health project on sleep apnea. We know a lot of information about it but we just know any stats. For example, how many people have it in the U.S. We would really appreciate it if you know some things on this subject that you would give us a little help. I'll be excited to here what you answer.

    • ANSWER:
      Then again if Ali & Gabby did their own homework, Ali & Gabby would find their own stats bout it.

39. QUESTION:
    What is considered severe sleep apnea?
    I was told I have on average 32 incidents an hour from the VA.

    I read on the internet on some sites saying 20 to 40 is considered moderate sleep apnea, while other sites are saying over 30 is considered severe. It's hard to tell what is moderate or severe because of the contradictory sites.

    Does anyone have a concrete sight with information on this??
    sorry *site* it's late, I'm tired, lol.
    I'm getting a CPAP machine through the VA, thanks though.

    I'm asking if it is considered severe or moderate.

    • ANSWER:
      I would say it's on the upper end of moderate. If you were a crayola crayon you'd be moderate-severe.

      Do you know which criteria your sleep study used? They are your medical records & you have a right to have copies of everything. While you're at it, ask them about the frequency & which category it's determined to be. There are different schools of thought on labelling.

      Knowing the number of incidents is more important than the category. 32/hr is a lot. Just think, every other minute you are not breathing for a period of time. Some ppl have even more per minute & their times w/out air are shorter. That's how there can even be a severe category.

      I'm glad you're getting the CPAP. You'll notice a difference in the way you feel, your alertness level, feeling like you're back involved in your life, not as tired,more patience, more like 'yourself' & so many more positive things! Not only that, it could save your life!

40. QUESTION:
    What else can a sleep apnea test tell you about your health?
    Went to a sleep apnea test. What else can Physicians tell about such a test. I was hocked up to about 36 different electro cables.
    Thanks. I looked very funny after being hocked up to all these electrodes.
    Thanks. I looked very funny after being hocked up to all these electrodes.

    • ANSWER:
      A polysonogram or sleep study can identify about 80 plus different sleep disoders. Sleep apnea is by far the most common. It can tell if you have any siezures or brain wave abnormalities from the EEG They can tell if you have any heart rythm abnormalities from the EKG. The leg wires are EMG and they can tell if you have restless leg syndrome. The wire on your finger can tell what your oxygen level is all night. Other wires include the snore microphone, flow sensor (in the nose), the face electrodes are generally EMG wires. They can tell when you are in REM. The belts around the chest are to show respiratory and abdominal effort. It helps to determine if you have central sleep apnea vs. obstructive sleep apnea.

      Hope this helps

41. QUESTION:
    what is the treatment for central sleep apnea?
    im on cpap. doesnt work. cant get enough pressure to go thru my nose. only my mouth. i sleep using my nose only. sleep study says negative for obstructive sa. do i have central. what can i do. doc is no help.

    • ANSWER:
      This article might help. Its about a person who went through the same stuff you are.

      http://www.parade.com/health/2010/05/16-the-end-of-snoring.html?index=2

      Hope this helps

42. QUESTION:
    What to expect at apnea overnight sleep clinic test?
    I've been given this overnight appointment with no info so I don't know what to expect at all. Can anyone advise please and does anyone out there have experience of sleep apnea?

    • ANSWER:
      I have sleep apnea, a serious case of it too boot.

      Like you I went in "blind" to my sleep study. I was told to bring clothes, morning ritual stuff, and whatever else that helps you sleep. They usually ask you to be there around 8 or maybe 9p.m. so they can start putting the electrodes on varies part of your body. I had like one on each side of my calves and couple on my chest and 10 various points on my head.(don't worry the goop does wash out of your hair)

      When you are ready too sleep they will hook up the electrodes to the monitor. All you do is sleep and they will watch you on the camera while they watch your heart beat and breathing. If your wake up sometime in the night and have to use the bathroom,, well its kinda awkward but you have tell them you need to use the bathroom. You just can't get up because you are hooked up to the monitor. They come in, unhook you, go do your business, come back, they hook you back up and you go back to sleep.

      In the morning they come unhook you and take the electrodes off and you shower and go to work or home if you want. It takes them a couple days come back with a diagnosis.

      There are different levels of sleep apnea. You are only allowed 15 interruptions an hour for it too not be a problem. Interruptions can be you snoring, tossing and turning, not breathing, heart doing goofy stuff, it goes on but those are the basics.

      I had an average of 55 interruption's an hour. My brother was 66. I had stopped breathing at one time for about 45 seconds.

      The way I understand sleep apnea is when you are not going into R.E.M. enough to be getting good sleep. Basically R.E.M. is the time your brain shuts down to get the much needed down time and your body goes into auto mode. Sometimes your body may forget to do the basics when in auto mode and your brain has too wake up and tell you to do them. Don't let this scare you because you would be surprised how much of this actually goes on when we sleep. I also found out through my doctor that sleep apnea does run in family's. My Grandpa, Dad, and Brother all have it and so do I. One thing that contributes to my problem is a small jaw. It's half an inch smaller than should be. Some people go do that thing to their nose to help with the snoring when in fact it is probably the jaw. You might ask about that when you talk to your doctor. I hope I helped and good sleeping.

43. QUESTION:
    What do you do when your husband has been diagnosed with sleep apnea and won't use the machine?
    My husband has sleep apnea and will not use the machine. He also has diabetes. He goes to work, comes home sleeps for about two hours, goes to bed at 12:00 AM and gets up about 4:30 for work. On the weekends he will sleep if you let him about 14 hours a day. He would do this during the week but he has to go to work. I just don't know what to do. I'm very concerned.

    • ANSWER:
      Unfortunately, there's not much you can do... You can show him all the information about sleep apnea and its deleterious effects on health, how improved sleep can actually improve diabetes, etc etc, but until he decides to do what he needs to do, he'll probably just hear it as "nagging" and ignore you even more industriously.

      If it gets to be that bad, you could lay down an ultimatum: That if he doesn't start taking better care of himself, you'll leave because you can't stand to watch him take such risks with his health. I would certainly not recommend that, unless the marriage is already irretrievably broken and you would actually be okay with it if he said, "All right, bye then."

      My sympathies are with you; it's very frustrating to watch someone you care about neglect themselves. Unfortunately, your options are rather limited. I hope someone else has a more productive answer for you. Good luck.

44. QUESTION:
    obstructive sleep apnea surgery is it worth the risks?
    Has any one had the surgery for obstructive sleep apnea. Were thay cut your soft pallet, your uvula, and tonsils. If you have had it or know some one that has. Did it help. And what was the recovery. Did it change your voice. And any think els I should know before I go get cut up.

    • ANSWER:
      Many family members have had the surgery and now there apnea is worse because of the scar tissue. Much pain. Use CPAP, no pain, no scar tissue, Surgery only works if you know exactly where the obstruction is.

45. QUESTION:
    Are there any natural ways to treat sleep apnea?
    I have just been diagnosed with sleep apnea, and I;m awaiting the appointment with the pulmonologist. Just wondering what to do in the meantime.

    • ANSWER:
      Natural cures for sleep apnea

      There are several natural medicines for sleeping problems that might help with sleep apnea. However, it’s best to consult someone – such as a homeopathic physician -- about taking any of these. He or she might recommend one or several of them in some combination

      Here are some natural treatments that could work if you have only a mild case of sleep apnea.

      *Minimize your use of alcohol, antihistamines, or tranquilizers.
      *Make sure you get treatment for allergies and colds or sinus problems.
      *Develop regular sleep habits, and especially make sure you get enough sleep at night.
      *Gargle with salt water to shrink your tonsils
      *Try sleeping on your side or sitting up rather than sleeping on your back.
      *Don't smoke or expose yourself to other irritants (such as dust or perfumes).
      *Use an air humidifier by your bed side.
      *Place bricks under the head of your bed to raise it
      *Try eliminating mucus-producing foods (such as dairy and bananas) for two weeks. Then begin eating themn again and see if you notice any differnces.

      There are also small devices which can be inserted into the mouth to help keep the airway open during sleep. These devices help by either bringing the jaw more forward or by keeping the soft tissues up to avoid them collapsing and blocking the airway. These devices do not cure sleep apnea and it likely to get worse if left untreated.

46. QUESTION:
    What can I do while I wait for my sleep apnea test results?
    I am scheduled to have a sleep apnea sleep study next Saturday, but I was wondering, since it takes three weeks for the results of the study, what can I do to improve my sleep and breathing until then. I am fairly certain I have sleep apnea but I cannot get the mask until we are for sure about it. I am tired all the time, what can I do about this?

    • ANSWER:
      Here is what you can do, but I don't know how much will help you:

      * try sleeping on your side rather than sleeping on your back as it can produces loud snores because of blockages.

      * elevate the head when you sleep. This measure can alleviate snoring and make breathing easier.

      * Use an air humidifier at nighttime to make the air moister.

      * don't smoke for at leas several hours prior to bedtime. Doing so, the smoke can cause the airways to tighten in the neck, worsening sleep apnea.

      * maintain regular sleep hours. In my case, I had to quit my shift work job, to have a normal sleep.

      * use a nasal dilator, saline nasal spray or breathe right strips to help open nasal passages.

      I hope it helps!

47. QUESTION:
    What kind of doctor would you go to for snoring/sleep apnea?
    My husband and I are having severe problems with snoring. I think he suffers from sleep apnea. Would a GP treat this or should he go straight to an ENT?

    • ANSWER:
      Neurologist could refer him to a Sleep Pathologist to have a Sleep Study done, to see if he needs a CPAP or something like that. If you don't have insurance, the sleep study is quite expensive. A normal doctor should be able to refer him to the right place though, he shouldn't have to go to a neurologist for it.

48. QUESTION:
    How do you control your sleep apnea?
    Does taking naps make you sleep apnea worse or better> ??
    My husband has sleep apnea, mild to high condition. 28 years old, smoker, 20 lbs over weight, no significant excersize daily.
    What are some ways to help ruduce his tiredness, and also improve his condition??

    • ANSWER:
      Sorry this is long, but hopefully helpful.

      There are several things that can cause sleep apnea. There are three types: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and mixed sleep apnea.
      A blockage or narrowing of the airways in your nose, mouth, or throat generally causes obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This usually occurs when the throat muscles and tongue relax during sleep and partially block the airway. Smoking can inflame the tissues of the throat increasing the risk of blockage. His weight can be a factor as well. This is the most common type.
      Central sleep apnea is caused by a dysfunction in the thalamus area of the brain and the mechanism that controls your breathing.
      Mixed apnea is a disorder that combines obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. There is both obstruction of the air passages and dysfunction of the brain.
      Since there are different types and causes, for one to simply say "slim down and quit smoking and it will go away" is an ill informed response. While it is true that the situation could improve by doing this, it isn't always the answer. Your husband need to be diagnosed if he hasn't been already.
      the most common treatment for sleep apnea is the
      use of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. You have to have a prescription from your docotor to get one.
      Other treatments may include mouth pieces to keep the jaws aligned, medication to signal the mechanism to breathe, and/or surgery. Your doctor can discuss treatment options with you and your husband.
      Things you and your husband can do at home (remember that sleep apnea is serious and can lead to death, so work with your doc on these):
      Sew a pocket on the back of his pajama top and insert a tennis ball. This will help keep him from rolling on to his back.
      Raise the head of the bed (not with pillows, but with bricks under the legs of the bed frame) at least six inches.
      Try to avoid taking sedatives or drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. This can make the apnea worse and leave him more exhausted the next day.
      Taking naps, to my knowledge, doesn't affect the apnea itself, but can be disruptive of his regular sleep cycle. Sugar, caffine, and nicotine can too. It is important to try to keep a regular sleeping habit (going to bed and getting up at the same time everyday). I know this is probably hard for him since he doen't feel rested, but it will help the body learn when to rest at proper times.

      Hope the answered your question and was helpful. Again sorry so long.

49. QUESTION:
    What do you think of my article on Sleep Apnea?
    Go here: http://noteworthynewscasts.blogspot.com/2006/07/what-is-sleep-apnea.html and read my article. Tell me what you think!

    Abstract:
    What is sleep apnea? It is a disease that affects a small number of the population (only about 4% of men & 2% of women), but the chances of developing this disorder gets progressively worse as one grows older and leaving the symptoms untreated could be fatal. Many who have sleep apnea do not even know they have this affliction. This report will educate the reader about the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea, such as snoring and constant feelings of drowsiness. It will also review what one would expect when being tested for apnea, as well as popular and less-traditional treatment methods. It then discusses the long-term effects of not treating sleep apnea, which could include heart failure. By the time the reader has completed this report, they will have a full understanding of sleep apnea and how it affects one’s life.

    • ANSWER:
      It made me fall asleep

50. QUESTION:
    What is the BEST nasal strip or other product for severe sleep apnea?
    Over the counter, nonprescription product please. Can not mix with Coumadin. I'm trying to find something other than the Breath Right strip for my husband before I put a pillow over his head. Even if I go to bed before him, his snoring wakes me up. I don't want him to always sleep in another room. Thank you in advance for your suggestions.
    -to use for now until he gets the CPAP machine....

    • ANSWER:
      Well if he's got a CPAP coming that's good news. You'll be amazed. It'll be a LOT quiter in your bedroom.

      Until then - my wife used earplugs for years (and slept in the other room!) Nasal strips, sprays etc are a waste of money. How is a nasal strip going to keep his soft palette from vibrating? Never understood that.