CPAP and CPAP Alternatives

Los Angeles | Santa Barbara

You can’t fall asleep. If you do, you can’t stay asleep. You wake up too early. Or you finally drift off way just before the alarm goes off. You’re not yourself. Your health is suffering from a lack of sleep. You want solutions. . .

Isn’t CPAP A Sleep Apnea Treatment Alternative? Read More…

CPAP or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure is often considered “the solution” by many health care professionals. CPAP is frequently prescribed as the initial therapy forsleep apnea by sleep centers. The specially designed mask, worn by the patient while sleeping, uses pressure, sending air flow through the nasal passages and this flow of oxygen prevents the throat from collapsing during sleep. Ultimately, the patient is able to breathe more freely, thereby eliminating apnea from occurring during the night.
This appliance has additional benefits; wearing the mask will reduce and even eliminate snoring, which allows your partner to get a better sleep. CPAP also reduces headaches, nasal dryness, allowing your bed partner a better night’s sleep. CPAP can also decreases other symptoms of sleep apnea: headaches, nasal dryness and irritated eyes. The mask must be worn every night as the appliance only offers a temporary solution.

Although CPAP is the most prescribed treatment option, it is not tolerated well by patients and is, in fact, quite unpopular with them. Patients detest the CPAP appliance after using it for an extended period of time. Why?

When used as intended, CPAP has a success rate of close to 100%. The problem is CPAP is a difficult appliance to live with daily. The mask must cover your mouth and nose and be worn consistently night after night, all night long. Unfortunately, many people wear it for 4 hours (or less) every night; resulting in a success rate of between 23% – 45%.
There are other problems associated with CPAP. Because the straps of the device are in contact with the face, facial breakouts can occur as well as irritated eyes and nose, dryness of the mouth and a sore throat. Patients with allergies, or who habitually breathe through their mouths or sleep on their stomachs, will have a difficult time using CPAP. The next step for many patients, if CPAP isn’t working for them, is to try oral appliance therapy.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About CPAP – Common Inquiries

What is CPAP?
CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. While you sleep, a machine is used to rectify sleep apnea symptoms and aid in the prevention of snoring.

How does it work?
A continuous air flow is forced through your nose with CPAP. When your muscles relax during sleep, this steady pressure prevents your airways from collapsing. The result – you maintain a constant oxygen level throughout the night.

Can CPAP cure sleep apnea?
No. CPAP cannot cure sleep apnea. It’s a temporary solution preventing from the suffering of symptoms.

Do I need a prescription for CPAP?
Yes. You require a prescription to purchase a unit.

Are there different types of CPAP machines?
Yes, there are three basic types:

  • CPAP – delivers one constant level of pressure
  • APAP – starts out at a low pressure, senses when you are having a sleep apnea event and raises the pressure to accommodate
  • BiPAP – uses a higher pressure when you inhale and lower pressure when you exhale

Are there alternatives to CPAP?
Yes. A change in diet or lifestyle can alter certain patients’ sleep apnea. Oral appliances – a device used in re-positioning your jaw and/or tongue – are available. In extreme and severe cases, some people require surgery.

Do I have to use CPAP every night?Yes. The benefits of CPAP are only obtained when instructions are precisely followed and this includes wearing the device nightly. Even missing one night can result in an episode of sleep apnea.

What if I have to travel?
The CPAP machine is able to be transported. If flying, talk to the airline ahead of time to make arrangements or determine their policy, Your CPAP machine may be damaged if you include it in your checked luggage so plan to carry it on.

When travelling by car or planning on a camping trip, CPAP machines are available with options. Research units that can run on batteries or can operate while plugged into your car lighter.

Will my insurance cover CPAP?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition and has been linked to numerous health problems. Insurance policies vary, however, most will cover CPAP. It’s in their best interest to cover this unit as a preventative measure.

If you have mild to severe sleep apnea, or snore heavily, call or email us today. We will help you to identify the sleep apnea treatment that is right for you.

As a preferred dentist, Dr. Mark T. Weiser is trained to recognize and determine the cause of your sleeplessness. Taking into account a number of factors – including your symptoms, gender, age, medical history and current emotional state – Dr. Weiser will provide you with a full analysis and the solutions to your sleep problems…

BE IN CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE AGAIN – TODAY

Sleep disorders can have serious health consequences. If it left untreated, it can increase health risks. Choose a sleep-disorders dentist trained and qualified to work with you. It is crucial to your health or the health of a loved one.

You can gain control of your life by letting Dr. Mark T. Weiser take care of your nights. Contact our office today and find out which treatment options is best suited for you.

If you’re looking for an alternative to CPAP, contact Dr. Mark Weiser today at (805) 754.3653 for the Santa Barbara location or (310) 237.6620 for the Los Angeleslocation. We also serve patients from surrounding Southern California areas includingVentura and San Luis Obispo.

Let us know about your sleep problems – fill out our ’Sleep Disorder Evaluation Form‘