The first few nights on CPAP may be difficult, while patients acclimate. Many patients at first find the mask uncomfortable, claustrophobic or embarrassing.
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BiPAP: Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines allow for different pressure settings for inhalation and exhalation. Users who find it uncomfortable to exhale against the constant pressure of a CPAP machine may prefer the lower expiratory pressure on a BiPAP machine.
Tongue retaining devices (TRD) use suction to draw the tongue partially out of the mouth, which helps prevent the base of the tongue from blocking the airway.
If disrupted sleep regularly interferes with your daily activities, you should seek professional help to get a diagnosis. Your primary care provider may refer you to a sleep specialist. Sleep specialists can have different backgrounds: They are neurologists, pulmonologists, or psychiatrists specifically trained in sleep medicine.
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The heated humidifier makes this device a good option for people who frequently feel stuffy or congested after CPAP therapy. Thanks to this addition, uncomfortable rainout shouldn’t be an issue. We also recommend the AirSense 11 to sleepers who need different pressure settings when inhaling and exhaling, as well as those who feel more comfortable with an Automóvel-ramp to slowly increase pressure levels as therapy begins. The user-friendly video instructions are also helpful for people who are new to CPAP.
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There may arise rare instances of respiratory distress where a hospitalized patient would greatly benefit from CPAP but does not tolerate the mask or is not complaint due to delirium, agitation or factors such as very young age in children or the elderly. In such scenarios, mild sedation with low dose fentanyl or dexmedetomidine can be used to improve compliance, until the therapy is pelo longer indicated.
Cacho, adding that positional therapy tends to work best for those with mild sleep apnea that occurs exclusively during back sleep. This therapy may also be helpful in more severe cases of OSA when combined more info with other therapeutic options.
Although both weight loss and CPAP treatment are considered effective ways of reducing OSA symptoms, research is conflicting.
Similar to CPAP, alternative treatments focus on maintaining an open airway and promoting regular breathing during sleep. Some include lifestyle changes, while others are more invasive.
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Compliance Matters: Many people quit CPAP therapy due to initial discomfort. To get the most out of your treatment, practice wearing your mask and keep your equipment clean.