About Sleep Apnea

The most common type of Sleep Apnea is known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea, where the upper airways are blocked while sleeping, restricting air flow to the lungs. The reasons for the blockage can include body shape, fat, injury, weakness and more.

The recognised treatments for obstructive sleep apnea include losing weight, changing sleeping posture, MAD devices, surgery and the CPAP, where air is blown gently to the lungs, forcing the airways open, like a splint, and allowing breathing.

Less common is Central Sleep Apnea, where breathing is restricted not by blockage, but by brain function. The best treatment for CSA is usually chemical, i.e. drugs prescribed by a physician.

Other sleep disorders include narcolepsy, restless legs, insomnia and more, which all need medical attention.

Overnight Sleep Studies and Home Studies

An overnight study in a sleep lab, usually in a public hospital with long waiting times, or a private clinic at extra cost, should identify the type(s) of sleep apnea or sleep disorder.

It is always advisable to have an overnight study to obtain a good diagnosis, and suitable treatment. However it may be a good idea while waiting for results of an overnight study, to take ApneaLink™ home overnight test which should indicate the severity of the disorder, so that you can decide what action to take.

There appear to be no negative effects in a reasonably healthy person trying CPAP treatment as soon as possible while waiting for full study results.

If the user feels fresher, more alive, and is able to overcome the discomfort of the mask, then they are advised to buy a machine, after hiring a CPAP machine and mask forat least a few weeks.