You cannot sleep and you are desperate for a resolution. RIGHT NOW.
The right treatment option is obtainable and your new sleep schedule is waiting to be discovered.
Irritation! You just want to sleep – it shouldn't be that difficult. You toss and your turn, night after night, counting sheep and gawking at the ceiling. You crave sleep and you plead for it to come. You cannot stay asleep. You cannot fall asleep. You greet each morning with trepidation and anxiety and your nights seem to drag on and on. Your personality is changing. Your health is failing.
You want a way out and you want something that works. Relief is in sight . . . .
CPAP. The answer to your problems? Simply another problem? You decide . . .
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) – is commonly believed to be "the solution" by health care providers. Sleep centers almost always exclusively prescribe CPAP to people encountering sleep apnea. The exclusively designed mask is worn by the patient while sleeping. The mask, by providing pressure, forces air flow through the nasal passages. This influx of oxygen stops the throat from collapsing while you sleep. Ultimately, the patient is able to breathe freely and eliminate the ‘apnea'' from taking place during the night.
There are added advantages to this application as well. Wearing the mask will reduce and even stop snoring all together, allowing your bed partner a better night's sleep. CPAP can also reduce headaches, nasal dryness and irritated eyes; all symptoms that occur from sleep apnea. Sufferers must wear the mask each and every single night - the appliance offers only a short-term solution.
While CPAP is the most frequently recommended treatment option - it is just as detested. After using CPAP for an large amount of time, a high percentage of patients pointed out they hate the appliance. Here's why:
When used as directed and by adhering to specific directions, CPAP has a renowned rate of success – almost 100%. The problem is unfortunately, CPAP is a demanding appliance to commit to. The device calls for the mask to cover your mouth and nose and that it be worn unfailingly night after night. Preferably, it should be worn all night. A large percentage of people that use the device, appallingly wear it for 4 hours (or less) every night. That shoots the success rate down to between 23% - 45%.
There are additional problems linked with CPAP. The straps of the appliance can lead to facial breakouts and the mechanism lends itself to aggravated nose and eyes, dryness of the mouth & sore throat. Patients using CPAP have reported issues with the device when they suffer from allergies, usually breathe through their mouth or tend to sleep on their stomachs. After using CPAP for a period of time and concluding the treatment isn't working for them, patients often benefit from oral appliance therapy.
Frequently Asked questions About CPAP -
Common Inquiries
What is CPAP?
CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. While you sleep, a machine is used to rectify sleep apnea symptoms and aid in the prevention of snoring.
How does it work?
A continuous air flow is forced through your nose with CPAP. When your muscles relax during sleep, this steady pressure prevents your airways from collapsing. The result – you maintain a constant oxygen level throughout the night.
Can CPAP cure sleep apnea?
No. CPAP cannot cure sleep apnea. It's a temporary solution preventing from the suffering of symptoms.
Do I need a prescription for CPAP?
Yes. You require a prescription to purchase a unit.
Are there different types of CPAP machines?
Yes, there are three basic types:
- CPAP – delivers one constant level of pressure
- APAP – starts out at a low pressure, senses when you are having a sleep apnea event and raises the pressure to accommodate
- BiPAP – uses a higher pressure when you inhale and lower pressure when you exhale
Are there alternatives to CPAP?
Yes. A change in diet or lifestyle can alter certain patients' sleep apnea. Oral appliances – a device used in re-positioning your jaw and/or tongue - are available. In extreme and severe cases, some people require surgery.
Do I have to use CPAP every night?
Yes. The benefits of CPAP are only obtained when instructions are precisely followed and this includes wearing the device nightly. Even missing one night can result in an episode of sleep apnea.
What if I have to travel?
The CPAP machine is able to be transported. If flying, talk to the airline ahead of time to make arrangements or determine their policy, Your CPAP machine may be damaged if you include it in your checked luggage so plan to carry it on.
When travelling by car or planning on a camping trip, CPAP machines are available with options. Research units that can run on batteries or can operate while plugged into your car lighter.
Will my insurance cover CPAP?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition and has been linked to numerous health problems. Insurance policies vary, however, most will cover CPAP. It's in their best interest to cover this unit as a preventative measure.
If you have mild to severe sleep apnea, or snore heavily, call or email us today. We will help you to identify the sleep apnea treatment that is right for you.
Dr. Rick Coker has great awareness and understanding in distinguishing and determining the cause of your sleep problem. Considering a number of factors - including your gender, your symptoms, your age, your current emotional state and your medical history– Dr. Coker will offer you a full analysis and provide you with answers . . . . and beyond that - the solution.
Free E-Book Download 'All About Sleep Disorders'.
Stop Your Sleepless Night and Take Control - - - Live Your Life Again
Sleep deprivation is usually thought of as a harmless enough situation. If left untreated it can advance into additional medical problems. When treated improperly, the risks to your health are increased. It is vital to your health that you choose a competent dentist; one experienced and specifically trained in treating sleep disorders.
Dr. Coker is committed and dedicated to his responsibility of improving his skill set, advancing his knowledge, and always learning about sleep disorders and their diverse symptoms and treatment options.
It's time you take back control of your days and your nights . . . with the help of Dr. Coker. Contact our office and let us help you choose which option is the right one for you. Your search is over. Your sleepless nights are over. Call us today.
To optimize your health and get answers to your snoring-, sleep apnea-, insomnia-, and all sleep disorder questions, your search is over.
Contact Dr. Coker today at
(903) 581.1777
Let us know about your sleep problems - fill out our 'Sleep Disorder Evaluation Form'
