Many people don’t know why they are so tired during the day, experience memory loss, morning headaches, or other related symptoms that affect wellness. You may think that you get enough sleep every night because you go to bed at a reasonable hour and get at least 7 hours of sleep.  However, you may not be aware of the interruptions to your sleep. Quality sleep is essential to overall health and has a huge impact to how you feel when you are awake.

How can you tell if your sleep is the problem?

Loud snoring and long pauses in breathing during sleep are strong indicators that you’re not getting quality sleep. However, unless there is someone who has observed these signs, it may go unrecognized. Moreover, just because snoring is commonly associated with an underlying sleep condition, doesn’t mean it’s always the case. An individual can have an underlying sleep condition and not snore.

Undergoing a Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT) is easy and can be done in the comfort of your own bed. The HSAT determines whether you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a serious condition where the airway collapses during sleep and prevents oxygen to flow freely through the airway. OSA causes repeated interruptions to the sleep cycle and reduction of oxygen level.

Consequences of leaving OSA untreated

Besides the immediate effects of OSA including fatigue, memory loss, mood swings, and trouble concentrating, the long-term effects of untreated OSA can be severe. They include:

• Cardiovascular Disease
• High blood pressure
• Weight gain
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Decreased sex drive

How to take a Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT)

1) Obtain a Referral from a physician

Talk to your physician about your health concerns and see if an HSAT is appropriate for you. You can bring or reference this referral form when talking to your physician. (Aveiro Sleep Services Referral Form)

2) Pick up your sleep testing equipment

Upon receiving the referral from your physician, the Aveiro Sleep team will contact you to set up a time for you to pick up your sleep testing equipment and provide instructions on how to use it. Take the equipment to your home, get comfy, because the next step is…

3) Sleep!

For people that are already struggling to sleep, trying to get some shut eye with the testing equipment and sensors can sometimes be a challenge. Don’t get discouraged! We need roughly 4 hours of recording time to gain enough data on your sleep performance. This doesn’t mean 4 hours of solid sleep, just that you have the sensors on. It’s only one night, you can do it!

Check out the instructional video at the bottom of this article to see what exactly you would have to do for the test.

4) Return the sleep testing equipment

 Give yourself a pat on the back for getting it done.

5) Results

Once we receive your sleep testing equipment, we will download the data from the test and send it to our CPSA-approved Interpreting Sleep Physician to determine whether you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and if so, how severe. We will communicate the results to you and your physician. In general, it takes about 5 – 7 business days to receive the results.

If it has been determined that you do not have OSA, then your physician will determine the next steps. We thank you for the opportunity to be a part of your health journey.

If you have been diagnosed with OSA, your physician will advise you on your options for treatment and may provide a prescription for CPAP therapy. Your Aveiro Sleep or Sleep Medix clinician will support you along the way with explaining how CPAP therapy works, demonstrating the equipment, and answering any questions or concerns you may have.

 

 

Instructional video for HSAT

 

Be knowledgeable about Home Sleep Apnea Testing

• In Alberta, a referral from a physician is required for a Home Sleep Apnea Test.
• Each province has unique regulations related to Home Sleep Apnea Testing. For example, in Alberta, all sleep providing offering HSATs need to be accredited by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta by December 31, 2021.
• Aveiro Sleep and Sleep Medix are Accredited as Sleep Medicine Diagnostics Providers by the CPSA.
• CPSA Accreditation ensures:
  • Highest standards of care through best practices.
  • Independent assessment and evaluations.
  • Staff have been trained and assessed for compliance of patient safety and quality care.
  • Ongoing process improvements.
  • HSAT interpretations conducted by CPSA-approved interpreting Physicians.

Aveiro Sleep provides Home Sleep Apnea Testing, CPAP therapy and support services catered to obstructive sleep apnea. Our local clinics allow us to test, treat, and support thousands of Albertans close to their homes.

Call now to speak to a Patient Success Coordinator 1-855-852-2989 or contact us through our online form. 

On June 14, 2021, Philips Respironics/Respironics Inc. released a Field Safety Notification (https://www.philips.ca/healthcare/e/sleep/communications/src-update)  announcing a voluntary recall of its Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), BiLevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiLevel PAP) devices, and Mechanical Ventilators due to associated health risks. Health Canada since issued a Recall on June 23, 2021, listing 35 affected products by name. The full list of affect products and Health Canada’s reasons for the Recall can be found at: https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2021/75889r-eng.php#reason-motif

According to the manufacturer’s Recall and according to Health Canada, the polyester-based polyurethane foam used for sound abatement in the listed devices may degrade due to high heat and humidity. The degraded foam may turn into particles and it may also emit certain chemicals. Be aware that unapproved cleaning methods may accelerate the foam degradation.

In the recall, the manufacturer warned that there are potential health risks associated with exposure to those particles and chemicals. The manufacturer listed the following as potential safety hazards associated with use: irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, inflammatory response, headache, asthma, adverse effects on organs, and toxic carcinogenic affects. Further information on the potential health risks can be found at:  https://www.philips.ca/healthcare/e/sleep/communications/src-update#questions_and_answers

Aveiro Sleep acknowledges that the recall recommends Consumers take the following actions:

1. For patients using life-sustaining mechanical ventilator devices, do not stop or alter your prescribed therapy until you have spoken with your physician.
2. For patients using BiLevel PAP and CPAP devices, discontinue use of your device and consult your physician or Durable Medical Equipment provider to determine the most appropriate option for continued treatment.

In light of these recommendations, Aveiro Sleep stresses the importance that Consumers directly consult with their physicians to obtain individual medical advice regarding their use of an affected device. Upon seeking individual medical information from a physician, the patient may then be better able to weigh the risks of continuing use against the risks of discontinuing use.

Aveiro Sleep is unaware of the anticipated timeframe for the repair or replacement of these devices and is awaiting further guidance from the manufacturer. Aveiro Sleep acknowledges the urgency to provide replacement devices for patients; however, Aveiro Sleep does not control the supply of repair or replacement devices. Thus, Aveiro Sleep is unable to facilitate the expedient repair or replacement of the affected devices. Nevertheless, Aveiro Sleep is advocating for the health and safety of its patients and customers.

Upon receiving new information relating to the recall of the affected devices, Aveiro Sleep endeavors to provide that information to its patients when it becomes available.

Next Steps:

1. Check to see if your device serial number is affected by the recall: https://www.philipssrcupdate.expertinquiry.com/

2. Register your recalled device: https://www.philipssrcupdate.expertinquiry.com/
Alternatively, contact the manufacturer at 1-877-907-7508 to assist with device registration.

3. Please consult your physician. Upon seeking individual medical information from a physician, the patient may then be better able to weigh the risks of continuing use against the risks of discontinuing use.

If you need any further information or support concerning this issue, please contact Aveiro Sleep at 1-877-709-3252 or email sleep@aveirosleep.com.

Aveiro Sleep understands how important your therapy is to your health and well-being. We appreciate your patience as we navigate through this challenge.

Sincerely,

The Aveiro Sleep Team

 

Preconceived notions about CPAP therapy can be the reason some people diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) do not continue with long term therapy. Learn more about common hesitancies and start feeling confident about CPAP therapy!

 

1) Myth: CPAP machines are bulky and loud.

The first CPAP machine created in the 1980s was a beast! That said, so were computers, cell phones, and TVs. Since then, CPAP machines have evolved to sleek, compact devices that easily fit on a bed-side table. Furthermore, these machines are now jam-packed with cutting edge technology. Most feature automatic pressure adjustments, blue-tooth capabilities for your clinician to monitor your therapy, and apps to observe your own sleeping performance.

When running properly, CPAP machines should hardly make any noise at all.

Reality:

• Modern CPAP machines with humidifiers are generally around 2.75lbs
• Most machines emit a sound level around 26 dba

 

2) Myth: CPAP masks are awkward and leak.

 

CPAP masks get a bad rep, often getting compared to Darth Vader or snorkel gear. This could not be further from the truth. There is a huge variety of CPAP masks that offer minimal design and thoughtful features that ensure maximum comfort:

• Nasal Mask (minimal facial contact)
• Hose attachment on top of head (allows for better movement while sleeping)
• Straps designed for ease of putting on/taking-off
• Line of sight (unencumbered vision for reading, wearing glasses)
• Strap material for those with hair concerns (to prevent pulling)

The most important aspect to selecting a mask is getting fit by a professional clinician. Take the guess work out of the mask selection process and rely on the expertise of mask sizing science and clinical experience.

 CPAP mask seals should not leak excessively. If it does, there are several reasons why:

• Mask seal does not fit properly.
• Seal is no longer effective (needs replacement).
• Headgear is not adjusted properly.

    

 

3) Myth: It’s difficult to travel with CPAP.

Whether you’re camping off-grid or taking a flight, it’s never been easier to bring along your CPAP! You can take your regular home machine with you or opt for a travel size CPAP. If you won’t be near a power source, external batteries are available.

If going on a flight, your CPAP machine and equipment are considered a medical device and do not count as additional baggage. It is always a good idea to take your prescription along in case you are asked for documentation.

As an additional peace of mind, most CPAP machines now have blue-tooth technology that allows your clinician to adjust settings anywhere within cell phone coverage!

 4) Myth: Distilled water is not necessary in the CPAP humidifier.

Wrong!

For your safety and for the protection of your equipment, only use distilled water. Boiling water will kill microbes, but it will not remove minerals or chemical contaminants. These minerals that make water “hard” include calcium, magnesium, iron, and others. If these minerals are present in the humidifier’s water chamber, over time scale will develop that discolors the container and could damage the machine. Filtered water may remove some of the minerals but may not remove living organisms or other chemicals.

 

5) Myth: CPAP masks are irritating to the skin.

Sometimes people attribute skin irritation to the silicone in CPAP masks. Although this may seem logical at first, CPAP masks are made from medical grade silicone and only in very rare instances attribute to skin irritation.

In fact, the most common cause of skin irritation is not the mask itself, but bacteria that is present on the mask. The silicone in the CPAP mask cushion gradually wears out from skin oils, creating microscopic pockets in the surface of the cushion that bacteria can thrive in. Regularly washing the mask and having a clean face before wearing the mask will reduce irritation. Its also recommended to replace a mask after 6 – 12 months of wear because the silicone loses its ability to be cleaned.

Another factor that can cause irritation may be improper fit. Overtightening of the headgear can cause pressure points which lead to red marks and possible skin break down. For this reason, its best to talk to a clinician about your CPAP mask challenges and they can help find a solution.

 

6) Myth: Cleaning the CPAP is difficult.

Cleaning a CPAP is as simple as cleaning dishes – don’t overthink it!

• Add some mild detergent to warm water.
• Disassemble water chamber, hose, and mask.
• Soak and then gently hand wash all equipment.
• Rinse thoroughly and let air dry.

 

 7) Myth: Oral appliances are a good alternative to CPAP therapy.

Things to consider when comparing CPAP therapy to oral appliances:

• There is a misconception that dental appliances cost less than CPAP therapy. In general, dental appliances to treat mild forms of sleep apnea are around $2,000, which is also roughly the cost of a CPAP package.

• Use of a dental oral appliance is not recommended for moderate to severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

• Oral appliances work by pulling the jaw forward; some individuals may find this uncomfortable and painful.

• CPAP therapy is the gold standard to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

 

Final Thoughts

Keep an open mind to treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea with CPAP therapy. At Aveiro Sleep, we welcome the opportunity to answer any questions or address your concerns. Our focus is ensuring you feel confident and comfortable with CPAP therapy, and ultimately help you achieve a better sleep!  

Don’t know if you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea? Loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and daytime fatigue are just some of the symptoms of OSA. Talk to your physician about being referred to Aveiro Sleep for a Home Sleep Apnea Test in the comfort of your own bed. It’s free!

Aveiro Sleep provides Home Sleep Apnea Testing, CPAP therapy and support services catered to obstructive sleep apnea. Our local clinics allow us to test, treat, and support thousands of Albertans close to their homes.

Call now to speak to a Patient Success Coordinator 1-855-852-2989 or contact us through our online form. 

With so many mask options available for your CPAP therapy, it’s hard to know what the best one will be your unique preferences and comfort. Aveiro Sleep has a team of sleep clinicians who are experts in performing mask fittings, educated on the latest technology, and who have a wealth of experience in which masks get top reviews from patients.

CPAP masks can be pricey. You don’t want to be stuck with one that is uncomfortable or causes other challenges like leaking air. Don’t risk buying online by guessing which mask will work for your, always talk to a professional from an CPSA accredited clinic and take the time to physically try some options on to gage your preferences.

Considerations on selecting a CPAP mask:

 

 1) Face Shape and Size

The most accurate way to determine your size requirements is by being measured with a mask fitting tool performed by a professional sleep clinician. Never assume that because you have a certain head size, that your mask would match it accordingly. The spacing and size of your facial features determine what size and type of mask is most appropriate for you.

 

2) Line of Sight

Full face masks and some nasal masks cover the area between the eyes or fit high on the bridge of the nose. This may be a hinderance for people who wear glasses, like to watch TV, or read while wearing the mask.

 

3) Bed Partner

The flow of air discharged from the mask can sometimes be disruptive to a bed partner. Certain masks such as the ESON2 by Fisher & Paykel have a built-in diffuser so that it doesn’t blow a steady stream of air next to you.

 

4) New to therapy or experience claustrophobia

It can take some time to get used to CPAP therapy, and for some, the feeling of a mask covering the face can be cause anxiety. Small and with minimal face contact, nasal masks can be the solution to individuals who experience claustrophobia. It’s important to know that it takes practice wearing CPAP masks to get used to it. Wearing the mask before bed while winding down for the night can ease the transition to being able to sleep with it on.

 

5) Sleeping Position

Side sleepers may find some masks uncomfortable because it puts pressure on the face. Although a special CPAP pillow can help solve this challenge, a mask with soft silicon on the side of the face may also be the solution. The Respironics DreamWisp directs airflow through the soft silicon frame to allows for side sleepers.

 

 6) Features

• Hair concerns

Some masks have rubber headgear, which can rub and pull hair. The P10 by ResMed is an appealing option for this concern as the straps are soft and the width is slimmer. However, please note that individuals with silky hair may find these mask straps may not stay in place as well.

 

• Ease of putting on/taking off

Fisher and Paykel have come out with the Evora Nasal mask with CaptFit headgear, designed for patients to put on like a baseball cap in one movement. This is perfect for individuals who find masks with straps challenging or for those who put it on in the dark. 

 

• Hose placement (either in front or on top of head)

For those who move around a lot in the night, hose placement at the top of the head is a good option. This helps not getting tangled with the hose when changing sleeping position. The following is the P30i by ResMed and features a top hose placement.

 

Common Questions 

 

Does your mask have to be the same brand as your CPAP machine? 

No! Most CPAP masks work universally with the leading PAP machine suppliers such as ResMed, Philips Respironics, and Fisher & Paykel. That said, some travel machines can require specific CPAP masks to work with its system.  

Do I have to have a full-face mask if I have severe sleep apnea? 

Technology and advancements have come a long way for CPAP masks. In terms of therapy effectiveness, a full-face mask is usually not required if you have severe sleep apnea. However, if a full-face mask is more comfortable with the high pressure setting, then that’s your call!

 

Mask Accessories 

• CPAP pillow – A common issue for CPAP users who sleep on their side, is that their mask is being pushed up by their pillow. A CPAP pillow is designed with a unique cut-out shape to allow the mask to sit naturally on the face. This can make sleeping with a CPAP mask more comfortable and prevent leaks.

• Fleece covering for straps (prevent red marks) – some masks may have increased pressure points on certain areas of the headgear. Use CPAP strap covers made out of soft material such as fleece to reduce the irritation and prevent red marks.

• Chin Strap – Dry mouth or gassiness may occur if your mouth drops open during sleep while on CPAP therapy. Try using a chinstrap to prevent this from occurring

 

Taking care of your mask 

 

Protect your health and ensure the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy by regularly washing your ent or one that is formulated specifically for cpap masks, such as Purdoux. As an extra step, you also can use sterilizing equipment such as The Lumin to kill bacteria and germs.

Replace your mask cushions or mask every 6 – 12 months, as the medical-grade silicon loses its ability to be cleaned and seal effectively. 

 

Final Thoughts

There is no “one-size fits all” when it comes to CPAP masks. Everyone has unique facial features and preferences that can make certain masks more appealing than others. Aveiro Sleep is here to help you select a CPAP mask that will be the best fit and features to suit your sleep style.

Aveiro Sleep provides Home Sleep Apnea Testing, CPAP therapy and support services catered to obstructive sleep apnea. Our local clinics allow us to test, treat, and support thousands of Albertans close to their homes.

Call now to speak to a Patient Success Coordinator 1-855-852-2989 or contact us through our online form. 

As if life wasn’t stressful enough, the impact from COVID-19 has amped up everyone’s anxiety levels. From financial worries to protecting to the health of ourselves and loved ones, there is a lot more to think about these days. During the day, it’s easier to keep busy and keep those nagging thoughts at bay…however, it’s a lot harder at bedtime to calm the mind and prepare for sleep.

Although it’s important to not completely stick your head into the sand and ignore your feelings, quality sleep is essential to your mental well-being and improves your coping capabilities.

Insomnia is a common sleeping disorder that can make it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake too early and not be able to go back to sleep. According to a 2002 study, an estimated 13,.4% (3.3 Canadians) of the household population aged 15 or older had some level of insomnia.

The strong connection between anxiety levels and ability to fall asleep can be a hurdle, but it also can shed light onto strategies we can try to help easy our mind and reduce frustration:

1) Sleep Environment

It’s important that your brain connects your bedroom for the purpose sleep and romance only…not watching TV, doing work, or exercising. This helps you separate all the other things you may be thinking about and encourage relaxation.

• Temperature: Aim for around 18.5 degrees Celsius/ 65 degrees Fahrenheit
• White noise: Turn on a bathroom fan or use set a white-noise maker to low.
• Dark room: Close your blind or curtains.
• Tidy your room: Helps you feel in control and create a calm vibe.
• Routine: Try to stick to a similar bedtime.
• Essential Oils: Calming scents such as lavender have been shown to have success in reducing anxiety and promote sleep.

2) Before Bed

You’re not a machine that can just be turned off with an on/off switch! You need to prepare your body and mind for rest in the time-period leading up to going to bed.

• Time your exercise right: Working out speeds up your metabolism, elevates body temperature, and stimulates hormones such as cortisol. Try to finish moderate to vigorous exercising at least three hours before bedtime.
• Relaxing activities: Low-impact exercises such as yoga or gentle stretching, warm bath, and reading can promote sleep.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Avoid bright screens and reading your phone in bed.
• Write a short list of things to do for the next day: This may seem counterintuitive, but it can help you “remove” those tasks that are running through your head to help you feel more in control and organized.

3) Calm your mind

There’s nothing worse than lying in bed, staring at the ceiling, and trying to force yourself to sleep. We should look forward to sleep, not be dreading the process. Instead of getting frustrated or thinking about all the things that worry you, try these thought exercises to push out the anxiety and bring on the sleep.

• Enjoyable scenarios: Take yourself back to memorable vacations or something in your future you’re looking forward to. If nothing comes to mind…make something up! Design your dream house or think about what it would be like to travel to a unique destination. Focus on the details, such as the sand under your toes or what sounds you hear. Just don’t daydream anything too exciting or it might have the opposite effect and you won’t doze off.

• Focus on your breathing: Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. Breath in through your nose and hold for two seconds, feeling your belly expand, then slowly exhale. Repeat.

• Boring thinking games: Remember the mantra that worrying doesn’t solve problems, it just makes you feel uncomfortable. Keep your mind from racing with these exercises:
  • Spelling easy words backwards.
  • Naming animals that start with a particular letter.
  • Make a list from a particular category, such as flowers, dog breeds, sports teams.

 4) Get out of bed

If you’re really stuck on not falling asleep and your tossing and turning, it may be time to get out of bed and take a break from trying. Go out of your room and do something that is not too stimulating. Avoid doing any work tasks or watching TV.

• Read a book
• Listen to music
• Stretching or relaxation exercises

 5) Talk to your physician

If you feel that you’re still having major issues falling asleep or getting a quality sleep, the best course of action is to discuss with your physician. They will ask questions to learn more about your challenges and screen for potential underlying sleep disorders.

Prior to visiting with your physician, you may want to keep a sleep diary so that you can understand your sleep pattern better and provide your physician with more information. Also, if you have a bed partner, ask them about whether they hear you snoring or gasping for air at night. It can provide important clues about your sleep health.

Final Thoughts

Figuring out how to fall asleep takes practice and time. Everyone is unique and these strategies may not work for everyone. Remember is that the mind is often the biggest hurdle to overcome, and that by learning how to decrease worries and thoughts about tasks to complete will allow your mind and body the opportunity to rest.

Aveiro Sleep provides Home Sleep Apnea Testing, CPAP therapy and support services catered to obstructive sleep apnea. Our local clinics allow us to test, treat, and support thousands of Albertans close to their homes.

Call now to speak to a Patient Success Coordinator 1-855-852-2989 or contact us through our online form.

Source: 2002 Canadian Community Health Survey: Mental Health and Well-being https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-003-x/2005001/article/8707-eng.pdf

 

If you’re new to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it’s important to keep in mind that it may take some time to feel comfortable. During the adjustment period, common challenges some people experience are difficulty breathing out, feeling bloated or gassy, or a claustrophobic response. However, fret not! With a little practice and some modifications, you’ll be well on your way to a better sleep and gain the benefits of CPAP therapy.

How does CPAP therapy work?

A CPAP machine sends a constant flow of airway pressure to your throat to ensure that your airway stays open during sleep, effectively treating the spontaneous pauses in breath associated with sleep apnea.

Motivation to be consistent with your CPAP

Some of the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea are excessive tiredness during the day, irritability, memory loss, and depression. It has also been associated with a number of other significant medical conditions including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. By using CPAP therapy consistently, it can improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of serious associated conditions.

When can I start feeling the benefits of CPAP 

There are a number of different factors that may affect the outcome of your treatment. Generally speaking, you should start feeling benefits within two to four weeks if you are using your CPAP every night.

Its hard to breathe out (exhale) while using CPAP

This experience is normal and to be expected when you begin using CPAP. Inhaling this air stream usually feels more natural than exhaling.

The air stream from the CPAP machine is pressurized and directed down your airway to keep it open. By relaxing, keeping the mouth closed and concentrating on a slow, regular breathing pattern, most people get accustomed to the different sensations of inhaling and exhaling.

My mouth keeps opening during sleep with my CPAP

If your mouth is open when using a nasal mask, the pressurized air stream from the CPAP unit will leak out, rather than reach your airway. This is not only ineffective; it is often uncomfortable and can cause awakening.

Many people using a nasal mask adjust naturally to keeping the mouth closed during sleep, others learn it with a bit of practice. If the problem persists, try incorporating a chip strap until you get used to breathing effectively out of your nose.

I feel anxious or claustrophobic wearing my CPAP mask

Increase your comfort level by wearing your CPAP mask while awake, such as when you wind down for the evening with an activity like reading. This practice will help you learn how to regulate your breathing without being hyper-focused on trying to sleep with the mask. Another solution would be talking to your clinician about mask options and seeing if one with a more minimal design would be appropriate.

I feel gassy or bloated after using CPAP therapy

A condition called Aerophagia can occur when air from a CPAP enters the esophagus and goes into the belly, rather than the airway and into the lungs. This can cause gas pains and distension of the stomach. As you get more comfortable with CPAP therapy and can regulate your breathing more regularly, this condition will likely dissipate. Additional solutions that may help include changing sleeping positions, trying a chip strap, and reducing pressure settings.

The important thing to remember is you must not give up. Sleep is essential for your overall health and treatment for obstructive sleep apnea will positively impact other aspects of your well-being. CPAP therapy will get easier with time and many of the challenges discussed in this article will be resolved once you establish a natural breathing rhythm. You can do it!

 

Aveiro Sleep provides Home Sleep Apnea Testing, CPAP therapy and support services catered to obstructive sleep apnea. Our local clinics allow us to test, treat, and support thousands of Albertans close to their homes.

Call now to speak to a Patient Success Coordinator 1-855-852-2989 or contact us through our online form.

 

The silent symptoms of Sleep Apnea 

For those who have ever been on the receiving end of an elbow in bed, you’ll know that loud snoring can be an area of contention among sleeping partners. It can negatively affect relationships and even cause people to sleep in separate bedrooms. Loud snoring is one of the most obvious symptoms of someone who may be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, and usually it is a loved one or spouse who alerts an individual of this issue.

However, snoring is just the tip of the iceberg of signs and symptoms that someone may be at risk of obstructive sleep apnea.

Other common symptoms are:

• Pausing or gasping for air during sleep
• Lack of energy
• Headaches
• Restless sleep
• Mood swings and irritability
• Forgetfulness or memory loss
• Daytime fatigue

What causes Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is the result of a collapse of the upper airway during sleep, interrupting airflow and reducing oxygen levels.

How is Obstructive Sleep Apnea treated?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy continues to be the most recognized and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. CPAP therapy has come a long way from its inception. The machines emit no noise and are small, practically the size of an alarm clock. There is a variety of headwear options based on comfort and treatment needs.

The other benefits to CPAP therapy besides better sleep

Effective therapy not only improves sleep and addresses the symptoms of sleep apnea outlined above, but it also can have positive effects on other areas of an individuals’ health.

• New research has found that the CPAP therapy can improve depression symptoms in patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases. (1)
• Treating sleep apnea can reduce the risk of heart disease. Sleep apnea is linked to a variety of heart problems because breathing stops many times each night. These pauses in breathing cause changes in blood pressure and can reduce blood oxygen levels. This puts an enormous strain on the heart.
• A new study from the Sleep, Metabolism and Health Center at the University of Chicago suggests that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy reduces glucose levels and improves morning glycemic control in type 2 diabetics who have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). (3)
• Stroke recovery can also be aided with those using CPAP therapy for obstructive sleep apnea. The researchers reported that 59 percent of patients who received CPAP therapy showed marked improvement in their recovery, in terms of improvements in neurological symptoms. This compared with 38 percent of those who didn’t use CPAP therapy.
• For obese patients with obstructive sleep apnea, using a CPAP machine to treat their sleep disorder may be a way to lose weight as well as treat their symptoms. The study, which was presented at the Endocrine Society 2019 Annual Scientific Sessions in New Orleans, LA, found that OSA patients undergoing CPAP treatment lost an average of 5.7 pounds more in 16 weeks than OSA patients who did not receive CPAP therapy.

If you think you are at risk of obstructive sleep apnea, take our STOP BANG questionnaire here. Aveiro Sleep provides Home Sleep Apnea Testing, CPAP therapy and support services catered to obstructive sleep apnea. Our local clinics allow us to test, treat, and support thousands of Albertans close to their homes.

Call now to speak to a Patient Success Coordinator 1-855-852-2989 or contact us through our online form.

References:

(1) Shrourou, Alina. (2019, July 1). CPAP treatment for sleep apnea can improve depression symptoms. News Medical Life Sciences. https://www.news-medical.net/news/20190701/CPAP-treatment-for-sleep-apnea-can-improve-depression-symptoms.aspx

(2) No author listed. (2015, August 10). CPA Benefits. Sleep Education Org/American Academy of Sleep Medicine. http://sleepeducation.org/essentials-in-sleep/cpap/benefits

(3) Celmer, Jamie. (2013, June 3). CPAP improves glycemic control in type 2 diabetics with sleep apnea. American Academy of Sleep Medicine. https://aasm.org/cpap-improves-glycemic-control-in-type-2-diabetics-with-sleep-apnea/

(4) Dallas, Mary Elizabeth. (2019, Sept 20). Easing sleep apnea may be key to stroke recovery. HealthDay Reporter. https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/news/20180920/easing-sleep-apnea-may-be-key-to-stroke-recovery#1

(5) Campbell, Patrick. (2019, March 25). CPAP may aid in patient weight loss. MD Magazine. https://www.mdmag.com/conference-coverage/endo-2019/cpap-may-aid-in-patient-weight-loss

 

 

If you are using CPAP (Continuous positive airway pressure) therapy to treat your sleep apnea, it is critical to understand the importance of cleaning and know when it is time to replace your CPAP mask.

Your CPAP mask starts out germ-free, however over time you will introduce bacteria that will grow out of control if not cleaned. Moreover, a heated humidifier and tubing creates a warm, moist environment – perfect for fungus, yeast and mold. Transferring viruses to the surface of your CPAP mask and then wearing the mask, makes for an easy way to become vulnerable to illness. 

Obtaining a good seal between the CPAP mask interface and your skin is important to help you get the benefits of continuous airflow. Although daily cleaning is necessary, the best way to assure a good seal is to change your supplies on a regular basis. Disposable supplies lose their ability to be cleaned, resulting in bacteria build-up, stiffness of flexible silicon mask seals, and clogged filters. New tubing, filters and humidifier chambers also keep your therapy in top notch condition, while reducing the potential for bacteria growth.

What the Research Says

A 2009 study at Harvard University, by Dr. Alex Horowitz, Dr. Sandra Horowitz and Dr. Chinhak Chun showed that over time, CPAP masks, even when cleaned and taken care of regularly, contain high amounts of bacteria colonies and fungus.

The study looked at CPAP masks, hoses and humidifiers and concluded that 48 per cent of the CPAP masks tested contained more than 2000 bacteria colonies after 48 hours. Swabs were taken from the interface (where the mask seals to your face) of the mask and at the base of the hose and humidifier. These swab samples were then tested for bacteria colony counts 24 and 48 hours later.

What they found was, there is a correlation between older masks and higher amounts of bacteria, no matter how often or well the mask was cleaned. Because of this, experts recommend replacing the mask and hose at least once every six months to guard against bacteria build up.

While none of the people in the study said they had become ill more often since starting CPAP therapy, eight complained of being more susceptible to nasal congestion.

Reduce your Risk

• Wash your mask and equipment regularly with mild detergent or soap specifically for CPAP masks and equipment.
• Use a device that sanitizes CPAP equipment such as The Lumin.  
• Replace your CPAP mask at least every 6 months. 
• Do not let water or moisture remain in the equipment for prolonged periods (more than a few days unused) and use a heated humidifier and heated tubing to reduce condensation. If you decide to stop using the treatment for longer than a few days, clean and dry it out completely.
• Use distilled water in the humidifier to reduce your risk of infection. This can also avoid the accumulation of minerals inside the water chamber.
• Do not share your equipment with others to prevent the spread of infection. Do not purchase or accept used masks and tubing.

What is the Lumin Sanitization Device?

The Lumin is the easiest and fastest way to sanitize CPAP masks and accessories. With a push of a button, germs and bacteria are obliterated in just 5 minutes.  This bonus is that this device can be used to sanitize other items such as keys, toothbrushes, cellphones, toys, etc.

Special Offer: Contact us and quote “STAYHEALTHY” to receive a special offer on the Lumin. Expires March 31, 2020 or while supplies last. 

Aveiro Sleep provides Home Sleep Apnea Testing, CPAP therapy and support services catered to obstructive sleep apnea. Our local clinics allow us to test, treat, and support thousands of Albertans close to their homes.

Call now to speak to a Patient Success Coordinator 1-855-852-2989 or contact us through our online form.