Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a very common sleep-related breathing disorder, and it occurs when your breathing is interrupted while you are asleep. Untreated OSA can lead to high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, and change in cognitive function and mood. Today, we will share with you what OSA therapy is and when it could be time to visit your RT!
OSA Therapy & Treatments
- There are many forms of treatments for obstructive sleep apnea such as sleep surgery and oral appliances, but the most common and recommended form of treatment is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). CPAP machines can help keep your airways open while you are asleep and can help reduce your OSA symptoms. CPAP treatments are a safe, effective, and non-invasive option for the treatment of OSA.
- CPAP therapy uses a CPAP machine that will take the air from the room, filter and pressurize the air, and then deliver the air to the patient through a tube and face mask. The pressurized air can help keep your airways open and prevent obstructions throughout the night. CPAP therapy can help stabilize breathing as well as help improve your quality of sleep.
When You Should See Your RT
- There are a few symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea to watch out for in yourself and your partner, here are some of the signs and symptoms:
- Loud Snoring
- Morning Headache
- Daytime Sleepiness
- Irritation
- Difficulty Concentrating Throughout the Day
- Waking up Gasping or Choking
- Pauses in Breathing While Asleep
- If you or a partner has observed any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your respiratory therapist as soon as possible. There are many sleep tests available such as laboratory sleep testing and home sleep testing that help you get a correct diagnosis and can help get you started on a treatment plan.
OSA therapy can be very beneficial in reducing sleep apnea symptoms. Sleep apnea can affect many aspects of your daily life including your quality of sleep, cognitive ability throughout the day, and your mood. If you have been experiencing sleep apnea symptoms and are looking for a solution, visit our website to view our available services or contact us with any questions you may have! Here at PulseAir, we can help you get the quality sleep you need!