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Sleep apnea and alcohol
wp:paragraph Many of you may enjoy relaxing with an alcoholic beverage at the end of a long day. Just like many of you may enjoy going to occasions and gatherings where there is an abundance of alcoholic beverages present. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph It’s something that’s naturally a part of our lives, but have you ever thought about how this could affect your sleep apnea? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Many of you may have experienced a terrible night’s sleep after drinking too much. Having too much to drink before bedtime can lead to many symptoms such as insomnia, snoring, headaches and nightmares. And let’s not forget the negative “morning after” effects of too much alcohol, combined with a poor night’s sleep, including fatigue, nausea, drowsiness and more. So it is really worth it? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Alcohol and sleep apnea have a very strong link to each other as alcohol can affect your sleep routines in a negative way. Successful sleep apnea treatment and CPAP therapy rely heavily on routine. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day is crucial, as is getting a consistent amount of sleep every day. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph It’s one thing to have one or two drinks early in the evening (such as a glass of wine with dinner), but having too much more than that can be harmful to your sleep cycle. And while drinking too much may make you feel more tired come bedtime, it can cause insomnia and more frequent episodes of snoring and breathing problems as you sleep. Alcohol has also been known to cause your breathing to become more slow and shallow and relax your airway too much, which could worsen your sleep apnea symptoms. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph For this reason, sleep apnea patients are best to avoid any alcohol a few hours before bedtime. If you do slip up and are thrown off your sleep routine for one night, it is very important to get right back on track the next day. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph All in all, it is not worth it to throw away one night of valuable CPAP therapy over a few too many drinks. Be sure to plan carefully when out at a party or a gathering and know what your limit is and when to say no. /wp:paragraph
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CPAP and Travel
wp:paragraph It may have seemed like a long time coming but summertime is finally around the corner! And you may have a lot of summer travel plans on your mind. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As you prepare for your summer travels, one thing you’ll need to think about is how to deal with packing your CPAP machine when you go away, especially if you will be gone for a night or more. Keeping up with your CPAP therapy is very important, even when you are away from home and should not be neglected for even just one night. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As much of a nuisance that this may sound like, travelling with a CPAP machine IS possible! Sleep technology has come a long way in recent years and you shouldn’t have to miss out on travelling just because you use a CPAP machine, so there are ways that you can take it with you. It involves preparing in advance and using some extra caution when you travel. Here are a few tips for travelling with a CPAP machine: /wp:paragraph wp:list If you are flying: always carry on your CPAP machine instead of leaving it in your checked baggage. You run the risk of it being damaged in transit and we all know it’ll be an expensive replacement at that, so it’s not worth the risk. If you plan on using your machine during your flight, be sure to check with your airline ahead of time about any restrictions that may be in place. Also be sure that there is a sufficient power outlet nearby or that your machine has enough battery life to last for the duration of the flight Always carry your CPAP prescription and paperwork with you, just in case you are ever questioned by a security officer or flight attendant, or if you run into some heath issues away from home. Better safe than sorry! Be sure to bring any spare batteries or plug adaptors that you may need for your machine. If you are camping, or going to a place with no electrical outlets, be sure to bring extra battery packs that are fully charged If you travel frequently, think about investing in a smaller, travel friendly CPAP machine. The Z1 travel machine is small, quiet and efficient. You can find it on sale at papsmart.com now, but only for a limited time! /wp:list wp:paragraph All in all, travelling with a CPAP machine just involves some careful preparation and a cautious eye on the road. Your doctor may also have some tips for travelling with your machine that may be helpful. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3696,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"custom"} /wp:image
Learn moreThe importance of cleaning your CPAP Mask
wp:paragraph You’ve probably done a lot of spring cleaning over these past few months. Many people with CPAP machines tend to neglect the regular cleaning of their machines, or they only attempt this once every few weeks. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Regular and thorough cleaning of your CPAP machine and parts is essential to ensuring it lasts as long as possible and that it is always in top working condition. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you are not doing so already, it is important to develop a routine for cleaning your CPAP machine, using these helpful tips: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:list Wipe down the mask every day, especially the parts that come in contact directly with your skin, such as the cushions. Your facial oils can wear the mask down faster, resulting in you having to replace it sooner than necessary. Simply use wipes, or a warm washcloth with mild soap. It takes less than 5 minutes. At least once a week, be sure to give your mask, tubing, headgear and your humidifier (if you have one) a good bath. Simply wash them in your bathroom sink filled with a mild detergent (dish detergent is perfectly fine). Give them a good scrub for about 5 minutes and let the parts air dry for a while. You can wipe them down with a towel as well if you prefer Clean the filter to your CPAP machine at least once a week. Just rinse it under water, making sure to rinse out any dust and wipe it down with a towel. Remember that CPAP filters need to be replaced at least once a month in order to run smoothly Your CPAP machine itself doesn’t need as much attention as the other parts, but it’s good to wipe it down once every few weeks, even with just a wipe. Just don’t overdo it with the washing, otherwise you run the risk of the machine not working as well. /wp:list wp:paragraph You wouldn’t think of using dirty dishes that haven’t been washed in days, so would you do the same for your CPAP machine? Be sure to check out papsmart.com for CPAP machine cleaning supplies, including wipes and a travel spray. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
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Sleep Apnea and Seasonal Allergies
wp:paragraph The snow is finally melting and spring has arrived! While you may be excited about the buzz of spring, you may find yourself suffering from seasonal allergies and/or flu like symptoms, just like many people around you may experience during big changes in weather and air pressure. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph For those with sleep apnea, this can affect your sleeping patterns in a big way, especially if you use a CPAP machine at night. Some may just have issues with the excessive dryness in the air that occurs at this time of year and experience some cold symptoms, including headaches or migraines, sinus congestion, and sore throat. Others have ongoing issues with allergies and may have a lot of nasal congestion, especially at night. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph All of this can affect your sleep cycle, especially when you have sleep apnea. Several studies done over time have found a very strong link between obstructive sleep apnea and hay fever, which is a term for an allergy of pollen or dust in the air. This often causes a blockage in the airway which leads to; yes you guessed it, obstructive sleep apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Many people also experience insomnia as a result of their seasonal allergies. As if you have to sleep with your nose completely stuffed up, try using a CPAP machine on top of that. Doesn’t sound like much fun, right? Unfortunately it is very common for people to have some bad nights of sleeping as a result of this and doing nothing will only make it worse. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As irritating as this can be, there are ways to resolve your seasonal allergies without having to forgo the use of your CPAP machine for a night (which is NOT recommended as this can interfere with your CPAP therapy). Many over the counter medicines can be quite helpful in relieving the effects of seasonal allergies, including nasal sprays to help clear your airway. Be sure to seek advice from your doctor if the problem persists. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As always, be sure to practice good sleep hygiene. Stick to the same bedtime every night, turn off the electronics at least an hour before you go to bed and practice good diet and exercise throughout the daytime. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
Learn moreWhat if I don't like my machine or mask can I exchange it?
wp:paragraph So you’ve been using your brand new CPAP mask for a few days now and you realize that it’s just not right for you. It’s not fitting you properly no matter how many times you have tried to adjust it, it feels uncomfortable and you just resent the fact that you are stuck with this thing for a long time. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3680,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph As you know, CPAP masks come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Just some of these include: the full face mask, the mask that just covers your nose and mouth, and the mask with the piece that just fits under your nose. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Maybe you feel claustrophobic in the full face mask, or the nose piece will just not stay in place. Either way, you know that you cannot keep going with your current mask. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Luckily, most places that sell CPAP masks are very accommodating and will let you return or exchange a mask that may not work for you, and do their best to help you find a mask that suits your needs. Usually there is little to no charge, as long as you do so sooner rather than later. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you are just starting to use a CPAP machine for the first time, then be prepared for a bit of a “trial and error” period for your mask. Because of the wide variety of masks out there, you may find that the type of mask you purchased originally may not be the right one for you. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Also: there are some places that will let you try out a CPAP mask for a week (without having to buy it) in order to help you determine if it works best for you. Your doctor should have a good idea as to where you can go for this type of service. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Try to give yourself a full week of wearing the new CPAP mask before you decide whether or not you really like it. And no matter what, be sure you are informed of the company’s return policy BEFORE you make the purchase. Keep any and all receipts or invoices for the CPAP mask as this will be required for the return. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you’re in need of a new mask, be sure to check out papsmart.com as we have a few of our masks on sale right now for a limited time! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
Learn moreBuilding your CPAP support team
wp:paragraph There’s no question that starting to use a CPAP machine for the first time can be very overwhelming. And many first time CPAP users often give up on their device or take a long time to adjust to it. As underrated as this may sound, many CPAP users underestimate the value of having a support team on their side. It is easy to think that something like a CPAP machine will be simple and easy to use, however many people quickly realize that a CPAP machine is actually more complex than it may seem. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3691,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Using the CPAP machine itself is new and different. You will have to get used to sleeping with a mask worn across your face every night, something that you will likely have never experienced before. It’s easy to just give up on the machine right away when you get frustrated. Then this leads to your sleep apnea symptoms getting worse, and giving you a not so great quality of life. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Aside from all this, having a support team helps with the little things related to your CPAP machine, such as the cleaning process, recommendations of the best parts for your machine and questions about things like insurance for your CPAP machine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So who exactly might be involved in your support team? /wp:paragraph wp:list Close family and friends: these are the people who are with you every day and will likely be the first that you turn to in a time of need. While they may not be CPAP users, they may be your face of encouragement when the machine gets you down Other patients who use a CPAP machine: as great as your family and friends will be, they are not the ones using the CPAP machine. By reaching out to other people who are in your position, it is helpful to know that you are not alone in this journey and they will understand what you are going through and may be able to offer some advice or support. There are many online forums dedicated to CPAP patients, or there may be a support group in your area A medical professional that you trust: this is incredibly important as they make the medical decisions that affect your lifestyle and you need to be able to be involved, and speak up when there is an issue /wp:list wp:paragraph This is why connecting with other CPAP users and medical professionals can be helpful so that you have reassurance that you are not alone in all of this. Your doctor will know of any support groups in your area or ways to connect with other people who use a CPAP machine. Also, don’t be afraid to look right in front of you to your own friends and family members who want the best for you. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreSleep apnea in children
wp:paragraph When you think of people with sleep apnea, it’s easy to stereotype the overweight, middle aged man as the perfect sleep apnea candidate. But have you ever thought of who else this could affect? /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3686,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Sleep apnea in children, while not as common, it is something that occurs more often than you think. Often, it starts with snoring: one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea. But the place where many parents become concerned is when a child is visibly struggling to breathe as they are sleeping. If your child is making a choking or gasping sound in their sleep, this is where it becomes problematic. According to the National Sleep Foundation, children with sleep apnea may also come across as very tired and exhausted throughout the daytime. It could also contribute to behavioural problems at school for some children. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph For many parents who have a child with sleep apnea, there are many questions and apprehensions. How could this have happened? I thought only adults get sleep apnea? Well there are a number of factors that can contribute to sleep apnea in children. This includes their family history, being overweight, having existing health problems, enlarged tonsils or defects in the airway that have the potential to cause a blockage. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As overwhelming as it may be for everyone involved, it is important to try and stay positive, and remember that sleep apnea IS treatable. Many children with sleep apnea use a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) mask to help them breathe normally when they sleep at night. Doctors may also recommend some lifestyle changes for children, including exercise and diet changes. It is also common for doctors to remove a child’s tonsils to help alleviate the sleep apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Sleep is vital to a growing child’s health, so this is something that should never be ignored. Your doctor will no doubt be your best resource for any concerns you may have. Be sure to seek out help from your pediatrician if you think your child has sleep apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
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I am afraid I won't be able to sleep with a mask on my face
wp:paragraph The idea of the CPAP mask is a common anxiety amongst newly diagnosed sleep apnea patients. Having to wear this seemingly huge device across your face that exerts controlled air pressure while you sleep is something most sleep apnea patients are not thrilled with at first. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Fear not, this is a common concern amongst many new CPAP machine users and probably one of the biggest questions that doctors and sleep specialists are asked by their patients. If you’ve never had to sleep with a mask over your face then this will take some getting used to, no matter how open to the idea you may be. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A first step in this is educating yourself as to the different types of masks out there. The three main types of masks for CPAP machines include: /wp:paragraph wp:list Nasal masks, which go over your nose A “nasal pillow” mask that just fits under your nose A full face mask that covers your mouth and nose /wp:list wp:paragraph The type of mask you use will depend on what feels comfortable to you. For many people who are just starting out with a CPAP machine, it may be a case of trial and error with the masks, and that is okay. Once you find the mask that best fits you and your lifestyle, you will need to stay consistent with it every night in order for it to finally feel like a part of your routine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are a few tips that may help you get used to your CPAP mask: /wp:paragraph wp:list Try wearing just the mask for a few hours during the daytime while you work around the house, watch TV etc. just so you can get used to the idea of the mask across your face. Know what your own comfort level is. If you tend to be very claustrophobic, then the full face mask may not be for you. Similarly, those with a stronger case of sleep apnea may be better off starting with a full face mask Seek advice from your doctor or sleep specialist: they will know all about the type of sleep apnea that you have and are very well educated as to what is out there in terms of CPAP masks /wp:list wp:paragraph Many people who regularly use a CPAP have consistently raved about how much their sleep improved from continued use of their CPAP mask. So while it may sound like a lot to digest at first, just remember the end result: a better night’s sleep. Masks of all types are available on papsmart.com. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
Learn moreI have sleep apnea: what do I do next?
wp:paragraph So you’ve finally found out what is causing your snoring problems and many bad night’s sleep and your doctor has just diagnosed you with sleep apnea. While there may be some relief as to knowing what has been causing your sleep problems, you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed, and you may have questions and apprehensions as to what happens next. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3674,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph First of all: it is important to know that you are not alone. Sleep apnea affects thousands of Canadian men and women each year. It is also important to know that while there is no actual cure for sleep apnea, there are ways to alleviate your symptoms so that you sleep much better at night and you have a better quality of life overall. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Sleep is one of the most important factors in living a healthy lifestyle along with eating right and getting exercise. So without it, many people experience a lot of problems with daytime fatigue and drowsiness. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The two main types of sleep apnea are: /wp:paragraph wp:list Obstructive sleep apnea: the most common type, where the tissue at the back of your airway relaxes to the point where it can become blocked. Many people snore loudly as a result of this. Central sleep apnea: where your brain does not signal to the muscles that control your airway, often resulting in it becoming blocked. /wp:list wp:paragraph If you have not done so already, be sure to sit down with your doctor or sleep specialist and discuss that the next steps are in treating your condition. This is the perfect time to ask any questions that you may have and the two of you can figure out the best treatment plan for you. Some people have a milder case of sleep apnea than others do, so the way one person deals with it may be vastly different from other people. Your doctor will know best as to what type of sleep apnea you have, and what kind of treatment plan will work best for you. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph One of the most popular, and recommended treatments is the Continuous Positive Airway (CPAP) machine. This is a mask that you wear at night, connected to a machine that exerts a continuous flow of air, so that your airway stays open as you sleep. This is known to be very successful for providing relief almost immediately, and many CPAP users have testified to having more mental and physical energy during the daytime. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your doctor may also recommend that you make some changes to your lifestyle in order to help alleviate your sleep apnea, including healthy eating and getting regular exercise. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So you see, sleep apnea is treatable and you are not alone! Be sure to confide in your doctor as to your next steps towards getting a good night’s sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph
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