CPAP Machine Pros and Cons (Benefits & Side Effects)

Let’s Talk Benefits of Using a CPAP Machine and CPAP Machine Side Effects

man sleeping with a sleep apnea cpap machine Do you struggle with snoring or sleep apnea? When someone is diagnosed with a sleeping disorder, they usually want to learn more about CPAP machine pros and cons, since using a CPAP is typically the first form of treatment that’s recommended. CPAP machines use a system that pushes air through a pair of tubes that connect to a soft mask that rests over your nose. It’s usually held in place with a set of straps that you put behind your head like a pair of goggles.

Dr. Karen Davis Dentistry now provides oral devices for mild to moderate sleep apnea patients (which is determined by a sleep test). These appliances are not to be confused with basic night guard appliances. So, if the CPAP machine “cons” don’t work out in your favor or you’re experiencing CPAP machine side effects, you potentially have an alternative option to address and treat your sleeping problems.

CPAP Machine Side Effects

When it comes to the “cons” of using a CPAP machine, side effects seem to be more related to the design and size of the device. For instance, since hoses and a base are involved, traveling with a CPAP can be quite cumbersome. More importantly though, many report that they get tangled in the hose while sleeping, therefore causing the hose to become blocked. Understandably, then non-compliance becomes an issue due to a lack of comfort!

Aside from its design, there are a few minor CPAP machine side-effects you might want to be aware of, according to the ASA, including:

Skin irritation or rash where the nosepiece rests
Claustrophobia
Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Nasal irritation, such as a dry or stuffy nose
Infections due to inadequate cleaning
Swallowing air

Benefits of Using a CPAP Machine

CPAP therapy is useful for many people. Since CPAP equipment physically forces air into your airway, your body and brain won’t experience the deprivation and fatigue of low oxygen intake.

Alternatives to Using a CPAP

Even though the benefits of using a CPAP machine do help most people, others find that sleeping with a bulky restrictive device is difficult, uncomfortable, embarrassing, or simply doesn’t work with their mobile lifestyle.

Fortunately, Dr Karen Davis Dentistry has a CPAP alternative for people who may be CPAP intolerant (unable to use the equipment) and have tested mild to moderate. These sleep devices are not to be confused with a basic night guard for clenching or grinding.

Oral sleep apnea appliances work for people who have certain types of sleeping disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Since OSA is caused by soft tissues collapsing against one another and sealing off the upper airway at the back of your mouth and throat, oral sleep appliances reposition the lower jaw so those tissues aren’t hindering oxygen intake. As a result, air can flow naturally through your airway and into your lungs.

Having your oral sleep appliances custom-made and fitted by a dentist in Sarnia ensures a comfortable fit. Some people have reported improved sleeping within the first night of use! Others might require a few adjustments to find the perfect fit. And did you know that you can also combine snore mouthguards with your CPAP equipment in some cases?

Sleep Apnea Treatments in Sarnia

Our sleep apnea appliances are individually measured and fitted to each individual. If you suspect that you have a sleeping disorder, contact your medical doctor to have a sleep test completed. This test records your respiratory rate and snoring. The finger and chest sensor record the data that’s then interpreted by a sleep specialist such as a pulmonologist. If the type of sleeping issues you have qualify for an oral appliance, we can take an impression of your teeth, record measurements and send off to the laboratory right away for processing!

Does Treating Sleep Apnea Really Matter?

Besides feeling tired in the morning, struggling with frequent headaches, or snoring that keeps your family up at night, sleep apnea can be a hazard to your health. When your body is deprived of oxygen, you’re at an increased chance of experiencing long-term issues such as high blood pressure, and diabetes, and are more likely to suffer from a heart attack or stroke.

Sarnia Dental Sleep Apnea Treatments

Being diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea doesn’t mean that you’ll automatically have to start using a bulky or loud CPAP machine at night; depending on severity, we may be able to help! If you or your loved one suspects that you have a sleeping disorder, we encourage you to take our sleep apnea self-assessment and to schedule a complimentary screening at Dr. Karen Davis Dentistry in Sarnia today. Please don’t wait!