Ask the Sleep Expert
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is the gold standard for treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea. The CPAP machine generates a pressure in the patient’s airways via a mask. There are some common problems associated with this therapy. Here are the top five most common CPAP hurdles and some tips to help overcome them.
1. Wrong size or style of CPAP mask.
Everyone has different face shapes and needs therefore a mask that works for one person may not work for another. We offer trial masks to make sure that each patient gets a proper fit and style before they purchase.
2. Trouble getting used to using the CPAP devise.
This is where patience and persistence helps. We recommend that you try to use the devise on a regular and consistent basis. Start by using it with naps then moving on to using it at night building on the hours of usage each night.
3. Difficulty tolerating pressure.
Technology in some of the new CPAP machines is geared toward helping with the pressure. Some things to consider are ramp pressures to help fall asleep with lower, more tolerable pressures and A-Flex technology.
4. Dry nose.
Most CPAP machines are now sold with a heated humidifier. Also, a saline nasal spray before bedtime may help.
5. Having trouble falling asleep.
This is a normal temporary problem. Practicing good sleep habits and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed can help.
If you have any question regarding CPAP or OSA please call:
December 2011 Article
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is caused by the collapse of the muscles in the throat when you sleep. It interrupts your breathing and forces your body to wake up, hungry for oxygen. People with OSA are usually unaware that they occasionally stop breathing for 10 seconds or longer while they sleep.
Since the signs of obstructive sleep apnea go unnoticed to those who suffer from it, their sleep partners can inform them of signs they notice, including loud snoring and disrupted breathing followed by gasping or choking. Individuals with undiagnosed and untreated sleep apnea may also notice:
• morning headaches
• a dry or sore throat upon waking
• daytime fatigue
• difficulty concentrating
• memory problems
• depression
The disrupted sleep and the strain sleep apnea puts on the body can put sufferers at risk of other potentially life-threatening health risks. For example, people with sleep apnea are two to three times more likely to be involved in auto accidents. Other health risks include:
• irregular heartbeat
• high blood pressure
• heart disease
• stroke
• diabetes
• increased chance of having a work-related accident
If you or someone you know has any of the signs or symptoms of OSA call Chinook Respiratory Care for a free sleep consult with a Respiratory Therapist.
November 2011 Article
With the cold weather there are several special considerations to keep in mind for a COPD patient.
COPD causes a person to become short of breath. Breathing in cold air can irritate the lungs and make these symptoms worse.
Additionally, during the winter months, people with COPD are generally more at risk of a lung infection. To avoid infection and exacerbation, it’s important to follow certain precautions:
• Practice good hygiene, wash hands frequently and keep them away from your face.
• Try to minimize contact with people with symptoms of respiratory illness.
• Immunization against flu and pneumonia is always a good idea for people with COPD.
• Wearing a mask or a scarf around your nose and mouth during the cold weather. If at all possible, avoid going outdoors in extreme weather conditions.
• Call your doctor and seek medical attention as soon as you experience signs and symptoms of infection such as increased shortness of breath, fatigue, wheezing or coughing, fever or chills.
October 2011 Article
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Program
At Chinook Respiratory Care our Sleep Apnea Program consists of five simple steps to providing OSA sufferers a healthier sleep.
Education about a healthy sleep is provided in an initial sleep consult. In addition to going over the risk factors we also educate patients on healthy sleep habits.
Screening consists of questionnaires and if required a level three sleep study. These studies are interpreted and recommendations are made.
Diagnosis is made either with a level three study or if required, a level one study is recommended for further evaluation.
Treatment is given on the prescription of the Physician for CPAP therapy. Appropriate equipment and masks are set up as per the patients needs.
Our Follow-up care is the most important part of our program. It is critical to rectify any problems to increase the likelihood that patients accept their treatment and learn to successfully manage their sleep disorder.
If you or someone you know has any of the signs or symptoms of OSA call Chinook Respiratory Care for a free sleep consult with a Respiratory Therapist.
September 2011 Article
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Program
At Chinook Respiratory Care our Sleep Apnea Program consists of five simple steps to providing OSA sufferers a healthier sleep.
Education about a healthy sleep is provided in an initial sleep consult. In addition to going over the risk factors we also educate patients on healthy sleep habits.
Screening consists of questionnaires and if required a level three sleep study. These studies are interpreted and recommendations are made.
Diagnosis is made either with a level three study or if required, a level one study is recommended for further evaluation.
Treatment is given on the prescription of the Physician for CPAP therapy. Appropriate equipment and masks are set up as per the patients needs.
Our Follow-up care is the most important part of our program. It is critical to rectify any problems to increase the likelihood that patients accept their treatment and learn to successfully manage their sleep disorder.
If you or someone you know has any of the signs or symptoms of OSA call Chinook Respiratory Care for a free sleep consult with a Respiratory Therapist.
August 2011 Article
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is the gold standard for treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea. The CPAP machine generates a pressure in the patient’s airways via a mask. There are some common problems associated with this therapy. Here are the top five most common CPAP hurdles and some tips to help overcome them.
- Wrong size or style of CPAP mask. Everyone has different face shapes and needs therefore a mask that works for one person may not work for another. We offer trial masks to make sure that each patient gets a proper fit and style before they purchase.
- Trouble getting used to using the CPAP devise. This is where patience and persistence helps. We recommend that you try to use the devise on a regular and consistent basis. Start by using it with naps then moving on to using it at night building on the hours of usage each night.
- Difficulty tolerating pressure. Technology in some of the new CPAP machines is geared toward helping with the pressure. Some things to consider are ramp pressures to help fall asleep with lower, more tolerable pressures and A-Flex technology.
- Dry nose. Most CPAP machines are now sold with a heated humidifier. Also, a saline nasal spray before bedtime may help.
- Having trouble falling asleep. This is a normal temporary problem. Practicing good sleep habits and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed can help.
If you have any question regarding CPAP or OSA please call 1-866-315-2954 or 403-329-9153.
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