CPAP Problems, Solutions, and Dental Device Alternatives
Although it does not cure sleep apnea, sleep experts typically recommend CPAP as the best treatment for OSA. The device itself is based on a simple design--consisting of a mask, a tube, and a fan. It is set to predetermined air pressure specifically prescribed for the patient. This continuous pressure keeps the air passageways open while the patient is asleep. While this may sound like the ideal solution to OSA, there are a number of CPAP problems that many patients feel make the device simply too difficult for them to use.
The mask on the CPAP machine can irritate the nose and face.
CPAP masks are deliberately designed for a tight fit. This is necessary to maintain the pressure needed for effective operation. However, it can irritate the skin around the mouth in the process. Of all the CPAP problems that our reported to our office, this is probably the one we hear about the most. Some patients try to solve this by changing to a different sized mask. Others try nasal pillows that fit into the nostrils and alleviate pressure on the bridge of the nose. Doctors sometimes tell patients to alternate between the mask and nasal pillows to get maximum relief.
Another CPAP problem is the pressure produced by the machine itself.
A lot of patients simply find it to be disturbing and uncomfortable. Many have difficulty falling asleep as a result. Sometimes, adjusting the machine to start off with a low pressure and then gradually increasing the pressure will bring some relief. For other people, though, any pressure at all is too much pressure, period, because it impedes their ability to exhale. In these cases, sleep apnea specialists may try prescribing a bi-level positive airway machine to reduce air pressure when the patient breathes out.
Some CPAP problems are psychological in nature.
Claustrophobic individuals will sometimes feel smothered by the CPAP mask. They may attempt wearing it for a while, but they take it off as soon as the anxiety strikes. The CPAP machine usually ends up in the closet after this. While such a problem lies completely within the mind, it is nonetheless very real to the person, and very serious. Some people can overcome their fears gradually by using the unit a little bit each night and in the early morning hours (when most apneic events occur).
Severe discomfort and occasional pain are less frequent, but nonetheless severe CPAP problems.
CPAP specialists do everything they can to make these devices as comfortable as possible for their patients. Unfortunately, some people simply cannot wear them. Everyone has different facial features that are unique. Some simply cannot accommodate a mask. People with significant weight problems and people with very short, thick necks commonly report that their CPAP machines are painful to wear.
One solution to these problems may be bariatric surgery (for weight loss) or nasal surgery. As a general rule, though, we recommend surgery only as a last resort because of the increasing availability of so many different FDA-approved sleep apnea oral appliances. If you are among those suffering from CPAP problems, consider the benefits of treating your obstructive sleep apnea with a proven, tested dental device custom made in our office just for you.
The mask on the CPAP machine can irritate the nose and face.
CPAP masks are deliberately designed for a tight fit. This is necessary to maintain the pressure needed for effective operation. However, it can irritate the skin around the mouth in the process. Of all the CPAP problems that our reported to our office, this is probably the one we hear about the most. Some patients try to solve this by changing to a different sized mask. Others try nasal pillows that fit into the nostrils and alleviate pressure on the bridge of the nose. Doctors sometimes tell patients to alternate between the mask and nasal pillows to get maximum relief.
Another CPAP problem is the pressure produced by the machine itself.
A lot of patients simply find it to be disturbing and uncomfortable. Many have difficulty falling asleep as a result. Sometimes, adjusting the machine to start off with a low pressure and then gradually increasing the pressure will bring some relief. For other people, though, any pressure at all is too much pressure, period, because it impedes their ability to exhale. In these cases, sleep apnea specialists may try prescribing a bi-level positive airway machine to reduce air pressure when the patient breathes out.
Some CPAP problems are psychological in nature.
Claustrophobic individuals will sometimes feel smothered by the CPAP mask. They may attempt wearing it for a while, but they take it off as soon as the anxiety strikes. The CPAP machine usually ends up in the closet after this. While such a problem lies completely within the mind, it is nonetheless very real to the person, and very serious. Some people can overcome their fears gradually by using the unit a little bit each night and in the early morning hours (when most apneic events occur).
Severe discomfort and occasional pain are less frequent, but nonetheless severe CPAP problems.
CPAP specialists do everything they can to make these devices as comfortable as possible for their patients. Unfortunately, some people simply cannot wear them. Everyone has different facial features that are unique. Some simply cannot accommodate a mask. People with significant weight problems and people with very short, thick necks commonly report that their CPAP machines are painful to wear.
One solution to these problems may be bariatric surgery (for weight loss) or nasal surgery. As a general rule, though, we recommend surgery only as a last resort because of the increasing availability of so many different FDA-approved sleep apnea oral appliances. If you are among those suffering from CPAP problems, consider the benefits of treating your obstructive sleep apnea with a proven, tested dental device custom made in our office just for you.
Labels: CPAP, obstructive sleep apnea, sleep disorders, SomnoDent MAS
posted by Dental Expert at
2:46 PM
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