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Sleep Apnea Masks and CPAP Treatment |
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Tuesday, 08 May 2007 |
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There are many methods of treatment for a sleep apnea sufferer, and one option to consider is a sleep apnea mask, usually in conjunction with continuous positive airway pressure treatment. Sleep apnea is a condition where the sufferer repeatedly wakes up during the night because of episodes where they stop breathing. There are typically three treatment methods designed to induce pressure and airflow into the nasal cavity, including sleep apnea masks, nasal pillows, or nasal seals.
Nasal pillows are small, oval shaped latex rubber prongs that fit into the opening of the nostril. They are held in place by a shell that is attached to a headgear. When fit properly they are very comfortable and seldom leak. Nasal seals fit against the opening of the nostril and are held in place by a special frame attached to the headgear. The most common used is the nasal sleep apnea mask. This is a part of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and is nearly always the first medical treatment for sleep apnea. In CPAP, you use a breathing device that prevents your airways from closing during sleep, via a mask attached during sleep. CPAP is the preferred treatment for moderate or severe sleep apnea. It may take time for you to be at ease when you use CPAP. You may find that you want to take the sleep apnea mask off, or you may find it difficult to sleep while using it. If you cannot get used to it, talk to your doctor. You might be able to try another type of sleep apnea mask or make other adjustments. However, if you can get used to wearing the sleep apnea mask, continuous positive airway pressure treatements have a very high success rate, and the mild discomfort may be worth it to avoid more severe symptoms like daytime lethargy. |
