Q&A #7 Are CPAP Machines Useful for Mild Sleep Apnea?

Just like salsa, when you put the word “mild” in front of “sleep apnea,” it sounds benign.

But jalapeños are spicy in any quantity, and the effects of sleep apnea, regardless of the severity, are real.

You should absolutely talk with your doctor about treatment options that are right for you.

Introducing Your CPAP Machine

The most common form of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs because your throat muscles relax while you sleep. This blocks your airway, causes reduced oxygen intake, and causes you to wake up throughout the night.

Continuous Positive Air Pressure, or CPAP, machines use exactly that--pressurized air, delivered continuously through a mask, to keep the airway open.

They ensure that your sleep is the restful experience you expect and need.

Studies have shown CPAP machines to be nearly 100% effective in reducing sleep apnea and ensuring patients receive a restful night’s sleep.

A good night’s sleep has been linked to preventing undesirable health conditions ranging from weight gain and diabetes to heart disease.

Patients who use CPAP machines as a result of mild sleep apnea report they are less tired during the day and feel more rested in the morning.

In other good news, so do their spouses!

How Fast It Works

Like any treatment, however, a CPAP machine is only as good as how often you use it.

Treatment non-adherence can be a problem for some.

Bottom Line: If you don’t use your CPAP machine regularly or at all, you will find your CPAP machine to be less effective.

Most new patients require a window of adjustment as your body gets used to the machine, sleeping with equipment, and the feel of air pressure on your face.

Consistent use is the best way to ensure a smooth adjustment, which, depending upon the patient, can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Give yourself time to acclimate, and reach out to your doctor if the adjustment period is taking longer than expected.

Side Effects

Though side effects of a serious nature are not common, patients may experience nasal congestion, skin irritation, claustrophobia, or a long adjustment period. It could take you a while to get used to wearing the mask or finding the perfect amount of air pressure for your machine.

Gradually increasing the amount of time you wear the mask each night and being consistent about your use of the CPAP machine will help.

Do talk with your doctor if you have concerns. Don’t be afraid to ask if something unexpected arises.

Other Options

For now, CPAP machines are the most effective means of addressing mild sleep apnea.

However, research and new ideas abound and solutions ranging from dental solutions to pacemaker-like implants may be alternatives in the coming years.

Lifestyle changes like a sleep schedule and avoiding alcohol before bed can help, too.

Regardless of the solution, sleep apnea--even a mild case of it!--is a condition to be taken seriously.

See your doctor to access treatment and the most current information about what treatment plan is right for you.