Children And Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Diagnosis

Admin — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 18:31:27 +0000

Sleep Apnea Test – Usual Procedure During Diagnosis

What is the first thing you should do if you suspect you have sleep apnea? Call your health insurance. Before you subject yourself to any sleep apnea test, make sure you are financially equipped. I’m not saying you should be filthy rich. I’m saying you should know your medical bills payment options. Most sleep apnea treatment would cost you thousands of dollars from the doctor’s fee, to the sleep test, to the treatment. It would be wise to know what to expect so that your treatment process will be continuous. Sleep apnea is a very dangerous sleep disorder. You can actually die in your sleep especially if you have a severe case of this sleep disorder. Each night that you let pass without treatment is a threat to your life.

Sleep apnea test you can start at home

There is a way to self-check if you might be suffering from sleep apnea. By answering simple questions, you can already conduct a sleep apnea test by yourself. Try searching for sleep apnea tests online. It contains questions to determine if you are showing signs of sleep apnea. Very loud snoring and having pauses in breathing while asleep is the major sign of sleep apnea. If the test shows that you may majority of the symptoms, then it’s time to see your doctor.

Sleep apnea test by your primary doctor

Initial sleep apnea test will be done by your primary doctor. You will be asked several questions about your personal and family medical background. Ask your family and immediate relatives if there are members who suffer from sleep apnea. This sleep disorder usually runs in the family. Prior to going to the doctor, it would also help for you to keep a sleep journal for a week. This will help your doctor understand your sleep situation. Others even record a video of themselves while sleeping just to find out how loudly they snore. Most sufferers are unaware of how they breathe while asleep.

A physical examination is also necessary for your doctor to determine the cause of the symptoms. Your doctor will check the soft palate at the back of your mouth, tonsils, tongue and adenoids. If any of these are enlarged, it might be causing you to snore. Your nasal passage will also be checked if you have a deviated septum or other nasal obstruction. Other cases may be more serious such as a brain or neurological dysfunction. Once your doctor determines the cause, you will probably be referred to a sleep specialist.

Sleep apnea test by a sleep specialist

Sleep specialists are doctors who have specialized in studying sleep related disorders. You can be referred either to a pulmonologist (lungs), neurologist (brain) or otolaryngologist (throat). Some dentists also have special training in sleep medicine. They provide dental appliances to help stop snoring and prevent sleep apnea. Your sleep specialist will have to rely on the result of a sleep study to recommend the perfect treatment. You might then be referred to a sleep clinic for accurate diagnosis.

Sleep apnea test inside a sleep lab

A sleep clinic is where one can be diagnosed for symptoms of sleep apnea. The result of the testing will then be interpreted by your sleep specialist. Based on that, proper treatment will be prescribed. A sleep apnea test inside a sleep clinic is usually done overnight only by a method called polysomnogram. Before you go to sleep, electrodes or sensors will be attached to various parts of your body. One will be placed in your scalp, face, limbs, chest and fingers. These sensors will record your brain activity, blood pressure, muscle activity eye movement and breathing rate. This will all be done while you are sleeping. It is a painless procedure and all you need to do is sleep. The only problem with sleep clinics is the high cost of diagnosis. Hopefully your medical health insurance can cover the cost of diagnosis and treatment.

Sleep apnea test professionally done at home

To solve the high cost of sleep apnea tests, a home sleep test is available in the market. It is relatively cheaper and can be done at the comforts of your own bedroom. When orders, it usually arrived to you in a box. Inside the box is a gadget that looks like a small computer with a monitor. Instructions are included in the box and all you need to do is follow them. You will need to attach the sensors to various points of your body then turn the machine on. There are different types and models of home sleep test kits so the testing procedure might vary. After your overnight testing, you can have the results sent back to the clinic and they will be the one to interpret the results for you. Go back to your sleep specialist for a proper treatment prescription.

About the author: Ken has a background in owning and running a small business focused IT service firm. His passion is to help others that suffer from sleep disorders, including sleep apnea which he also suffers from. He offers free information on his website Sleep Apnea Revealed.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sleep-articles/sleep-apnea-test-usual-procedure-during-diagnosis-3834961.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
Is there an alternative sleep apnea diagnosis method other than an overnight sleep study?
I believe I have sleep apnea, but because I am currently in a residential treatment program, I am unable to go to an overnight sleep study.
Is there an alternative method with which I can be tested for sleep apnea?
- ANSWER:
  Not one that would be recognized by an insurance company.
  
  Have a friend watch you sleep. If you repeatedly stop breathing for 15-20 or more seconds, then you probably do have sleep apnea. More prevalent with snorers.
QUESTION:
I need disability insurance. I’ve been declined by several companies due to a diagnosis of sleep apnea-hints?
The apnea diagnosis is so slight that I do not require treatment with a C-PAP machine. I’m surprised that I’ve been declined. Does anyone have any suggestions?
- ANSWER:
  You can’t appeal a denial of policy issuance, as there are no laws requiring that an insurance company ISSUE a policy. They can deny to issue for any reason.
  
  Apnea tends to get worse, not better. So that’s one reason. Additionally, it’s usually accompanied by being overweight, which can be another decline reason.
  
  Your best bet, is to try to get your doctor to reverse that diagnosis. OR, to get your disability coverage through a group plan, with your employer. That’s about it.
QUESTION:
Is ECG and blood oximetry enough for sleep apnea diagnosis?
- ANSWER:
  No. To diagnose sleep apnea you need to do a formal sleep study with multiple monitors. EKG is not really useful in diagnosing sleep apnea. Over night pulse oximetry measure the oxygen levels in the blood during the night. Drops in the oxygen levels during sleep is suggestive of sleep apnea, but there are other things that can cause this.
QUESTION:
Has anyone gone back for a sleep study due to a diagnosis of Sleep Apnea?
I have my 2nd sleep study tonight and I know they will hook me up to the machine for breathing but I am wondering how it went for other people. I am nervous about how the heck I will be able to sleep with this ‘top gun’ mask on.
- ANSWER:
  hello. i am a respiratory therapist and i have frequently tested people, set them up with a cpap/bipap machine in the community and hospital settings. basically the machine will give a constant pressure in (cmh20). the average pressure is 10 usually no greater than 24. some people require bipap which is a higher pressure on inspiration. some people require a back-up respiratory rate on the machine or even oxygen entrained. the majority of people use only cpap. your doc will prescribe the correct pressure to prevent upper airway obstruction. you will probably want to use a nasal mask at first versus a full face mask. some docs won’t even prescribe a full face due to the aspiration risk and (very low however) and lack of humidification at night. it will take several nights to get use to it if you require it at home. do not worry there is no danger in using cpap at your sleep lab. at first it will be uncomfortable but you will sleep better when you continue with your therapy. if you do need cpap at home, your machine is worth greater then 2 grand. do not pay more than 300 dollars for your mask and tubing. some provinces in canada will pay for your machine some make you buy it. you may also want to invest in a heated humidifier at home but i would recommend waiting to see if you need it. another note is if you are having a second test your first test must have shown obstructive sleep apnea. usually they only do the second part if your first shows something. good luck!!
QUESTION:
Is there any way to challenge a “Sleep Apnea” Diagnosis?
Late last year I was diagnosed with Sleep Apnea, both Obstructive and Central. I was prescribed a VPAP, which was not in any way better than nothing.

I lost sleep for a month, and often woke up unable to breath. The last time I used it, I woke up gasping, disoriented, and with a severe headache, all of which went away after two hours of NOT USING the VPAP.

In general, I sleep fine (As fine as the father of seven month old twins can sleep!) I only went for the sleep study as a ten year follow up. Ten years ago they coached me on changing sleep positions and losing weight.

Now I’m trapped. As a CDL holder, this diagnosis affects my ability to work. I’m sure it will affect my ability to get insurance in the future. And once again, I don’t think it’s accurate.

As a Patient, is there anything I can do to challenge this diagnosis?
I went to the Second sleep study as a follow up to my sleep study from ten years ago, which was a positive experience after the coaching in sleep position and weight loss.

And my regular doctor suggested I do a follow up study. If I had it to do over again, I would refuse. But now that the damage is done, and the treatments being recommended are both expensive and ineffectual, and with serious long term consequences toward my job.

With all that in mind, how is the best way to challenge this diagnosis and/or method of treatment.
- ANSWER:
  You sound like all of this is being done by your private doctor. Do you not have a pulmonologist’s consultation on this? They are the experts on sleep apnea of all types. He/she would be the one to bring this issue up with. If the sleep apnea test showed you have it I’m afraid they’ll just have to find a different way to help you. That’s why they give him/her the “big bucks”, ya know? I know there are pulmonologist’s out there that order a sleep apnea tests for virtually everybody and then set them up with CPAP. And everybody makes money, except you. My pulmonologist looked almost disappointed when my test was normal. But he recovered fast and smiled. I won’t see him again. Had the feeling of being cattle being herded. Never again.
  Any time for any reason you disagree with a doctor talk to him/her. They don’t bite. And they should take the time to explain everything to you. If they just hurry you in and out like cattle find another doctor. Really.
  God bless.

Surgery For Sleep Apnea

Admin — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:30:50 +0000

Surgery For Sleep Apnea – What To Expect When Undergoing Surgery For Sleep Apnea

Surgery for sleep apnea can be a very scary thing to consider and you should be well aware of what it involves before making a commitment to go through with it. While the actual surgery itself is relatively easy for doctors to perform, there are many risks to be aware of after you leave the operating room. For example, a turbinectomy is a surgery that is frequently performed. This is where a surgeon will remove or reduce the size of a nasal turbinate, or straighten the nasal septum. This cuts down on the nasal obstruction or congestion and relieves airway pressure. Other common surgeries for sleep apnea include tonsilectomies and/or adeoidectomies, which increase the size of the airway, reducing the oxygen deprivation.

Regardless of the surgery for sleep apnea that you undergo, there can be problems with the drugs used during and after surgery. These drugs work to relieve the pain by depressing consciousness, effects that can stay with the body for hours, if not days, after the surgery has ended. Even in low doses, individuals recovering from surgery to overcome sleep apnea can die from the drugs in their system. Scarier still, it’s not just the drugs that can cause life threatening irregularities in breathing. In fact, even if you have no drugs in your system at all, you may still be at risk.

This is because surgery patients for sleep apnea, as is the case with all surgeries, tend to experience swelling. This swelling of the throat, mouth and nasal passages can negate the surgery, even if only in the short term. Since this is the case, individuals recovering from surgery for sleep apnea should be intensively monitored. There may not be anything more uncomfortable than recovering from a fairly major surgery without the aid of prescription pain killers, but doing so may be the only way to ensure breathing at night.

About the author: To discover the ultimate snore stopper, visit http://www.StopSnoringSystem.com/ today! FREE course reveals alternatives to having surgery for sleep apnea!

Source: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=183943&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
How long does it take to recover from throat surgery for sleep apnea?
I recently had throat surgery for sleep apnea. My throat is exptremely sore, especially when I swollow. How long will this last?
- ANSWER:
  I had a client who had the same surgery you describe and it took her about 6 weeks to finally feel normal. Take care of yourself and get as much rest as you possibly can – this will help your body heal. You’ll probably feel some residual from the surgery (depending on how sensitive you were to the anesthesia they gave you) for about another month or two.
QUESTION:
If you have had surgery for sleep apnea, how bad was your pain after surgery? Any side effects?
I am about to undergo surgery for sleep apnea. Surgeon says the recovery period will be the “worst I have ever felt”. Someone who had the surgery said it just like a “bad sore throat” and not too terrible. I would like to hear from others who have had the surgery, and whether they had any negative aftereffects. I would appreciate only serious replies. Thanks.
- ANSWER:
  I have not had the surgery but cared for many post-op. The thing about post-op pain is it’s never the same for any two people. If you’ve had surgery before it may help show how well you handle pain.
  The main point I wanted to make to you was that across the board, the results of the operation also vary widely from person to person. Be prepared to not see a lot of improvement right away-but I hope you do!
QUESTION:
Has anyone had somnoplasty surgery for sleep apnea? What were your results?
I’m thinking about options to fix my sleep apnea.

Thanks
To stuck_in_lodi2008, which surgery was is that you had? With the somnoplasty I was reading about they insert a needle into the tissue and not actually cut it out. Is this what you had done?
- ANSWER:
  I’ve had this surgery for sleep apnea. My doctor told me that it would be a temporary fix for the problem, and would propably have to be done every couple of years. For as invasive as the surgery was I figured that is a small price to pay in comparision to wearing a CPAP. The surgery was done on Dec. 27 of ’06, and by New Years Eve I was eating steak and chicken without much pain. I have severe sleep apenea, 79 episodes and hour. After the surgery it droped to I think 30 episodes an hour, but the level of oxygen in my blood did not improve very much. I’ve been told 15 times an hour is considered normal. I wanted to schedule a second proceedure, but instead my insurance company wanted me to see a Sleep Apnea doctor before my Ear Nose and Throat doctor preformed the surgery again. The Sleep doctor told me that with every procedure the chances that it will work get slimmer and opted for me trying the CPAP again. The problem with the surgery is it works by creating scar tissue. Within time the scar tissue will relax and the procedure will have to be done again. There is another one called the pillar method in which the isert polyester fibers into the soft pallet. With the fibers inserted the body continues to create scar tissue so there is no chance of it losening over time. I have yet to really look into that one though. All and all I think it did help, but I have it so bad that even some of the benifit I got was not enough.
QUESTION:
Have you ever had surgery for sleep apnea?
Have you had surgery to treat sleep apnea? What was your experience like?
- ANSWER:
  I have sleep apnea and the CPAP machine works for me, but my father-in-law had the surgery to remove his uvula and he regrets it. He finds it’s a lot easier to choke when eating and it hasn’t really helped him. The other surgery is where they break your jaw and realign it, and just the thought of the surgery and the recovery was enough to scare me off…
QUESTION:
obstructive sleep apnea surgery is it worth the risks?
Has any one had the surgery for obstructive sleep apnea. Were thay cut your soft pallet, your uvula, and tonsils. If you have had it or know some one that has. Did it help. And what was the recovery. Did it change your voice. And any think els I should know before I go get cut up.
- ANSWER:
  Many family members have had the surgery and now there apnea is worse because of the scar tissue. Much pain. Use CPAP, no pain, no scar tissue, Surgery only works if you know exactly where the obstruction is.

Sleep Apnea Devices

Admin — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 12:34:25 +0000

Apap Machine | Sleep Apnea | Sleep Apnea Zone

APAP Machine

For individuals suffering from one of the three forms of sleep apnea (Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Central Sleep Apnea, or Mixed Sleep Apnea) a device that provides air pressure to the individual with sleep apnea is used during sleep to prevent blockage of the airway passage. There are three difference devices: continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device , a bilevel positive airway pressure (bilevel PAP) device, or an automatic positive airway pressure (ARAP) that often provide successful therapy for individuals with any type of sleep apnea. All of these devices are approximately the size of a shoebox. All of these devices come in different models made by several different manufacturers.

Regardless of the type of sleep apnea diagnosed, sleep apnea is a dangerous medical condition which causes sleep deprivation and oxygen deprivation. If left undiagnosed and/or untreated, sleep apnea can be life-threatening and lead to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Individuals with the following symptoms should seek medical assistance and testing to determine if they suffer from a type of sleep apnea. Symptoms of sleep apnea include: load snoring accompanied by gasping and snorting sounds; abrupt awakenings with a shortness of breath; insomnia; excessive daytime sleepiness; and problems with concentration and memory.

Unlike the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device or a bilevel positive airway pressure (bilevel PAP) device, the APAP offers more features. The APAP machine is touted as a more intelligent device than the others. Like the CPAP and bilevel PAP, the APAP device is consists of the individual suffering from sleep apnea to wear a mask over the nose that is attached by a hose to the APAP device housing an air pump.

The APAP device can be set to continuous positive airway pressure mode same as the CPAP but also offers a range of pressures that is not available on either the CPAP or bilevel PAP device. The APAP device automatically adjusts the pressure when a change of pressure is required, for example, when the individual with sleep apnea turns from a sleeping position on their back to a sleeping position on their side. With the CPAP device the pressure remains constant even if the sleeping position has changed. Also, since the APAP device automatically adjusts to the required pressure, the adjustment is made if the individual with sleep apnea has a cold and needs more pressure for a period of time so the APAP device is more effective.

When an individual is tested for sleep apnea they undergo a test conducted at a sleep clinic called a polysomnogram (PSG). The PSG monitors the brain waves, eye movement, muscle activity, and heart rhythm of the patient. A patient is said to have sleep apnea if the PSG test defines five or more episodes of apnea (pause in breathing) per hour. Other tests for diagnosing sleep apnea include an Oximetry screening. This is a screening method that monitors and records an individuals blood oxygen level during sleep. Portable cardiorespiratory testing is also an option. This is a test that is conducted at home to diagnosis sleep apnea.

About the Author:

Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Apap-Machine—Sleep-Apnea—Sleep-Apnea-Zone/777431

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
Has anyone tried the sleep apnea devices at http://www.nosnorezone.com/?
Some of these look like they’d work pretty good.
I havent been diagnosed myself but with the amount of sleep i’ve got lately vs the way i feel i’m pretty sure
- ANSWER:
  The only thing that really works is Uvolopalatopharingoplasty. I don’t like CPAP because it makes you look like a freak i.e. wearing a gas mask while sleeping. If you don’t want the aforementioned surgery or the CPAP, then the only other way to prevent sleep apnea is to lose weight.
QUESTION:
Does anyone have any information regarding tongue retaining devices for use with sleep apnea?
Although my sleep study showed that the AHI was reduced to around 10 an hour, the dental appliance is causing TMJ pain and my bite is totally off. Since my problem is that my tongue slides back closing the airway, I wonder if a device such as the Aveo might work. Any ideas??
- ANSWER:
  Thats a tough one. Three people in my family have sleep apnea but I haven’t heard any of them talking about there tongue assisting in causing the problem. I would talk to your dentist and your physician about what you can get. You could probably even go to Walgreens for advice. You could try getting a mouth guard to sleep in. Helps to prevent grinding and such. Hope you find something to help you!
QUESTION:
Has anybody had any sucess getting a SnoreGuard device for their sleep apnea, rcving full benefit frm insurnc?
I have Aetna insurance and they have been giving me the run around in not being clear with me on how I get full benefit if I get a SnoreGuard sleep apnea device created. They have told me I will get 90% coverage if it is billed under medical. All dentists I go to only bill under dental which Aetna only gives a 50% coverage to me. I have yet to find a dentist or oral surgeon who bills under medical and I find myself at point A, after going to 2 separate dentists/oral surgeon in search of them creating this device for me. This is ridiculous. All I want is a Snoreguard for my sleep apnea. Use of the CPAP machine is nuts in my case.
- ANSWER:
  The problem you face is SnoreGuard has been approved by the FDA as a “dental device.” As long as it has that term applied to it, you are never going to find a dentist or oral surgeon who will call it a “medical device.” Any dentist or oral surgeon worth their salt will never agree to bill it out as a “medical device” because they risk committing fraud if they do. If you are determined to get this device, then you probably need to prepare to pay 50%.
  
  One more thing, sleep apnea can kill. The SnoreGuard claims to be effective in mild to moderate cases of apnea. If you have not been through a sleep study, you probably should participate in one. They can tell you the extent of your apnea. As the previous responder stated, the CPAP is not a bad way to go. I have used one for four years and it has worked wonders for me.
  
  The bottom line – if you have mild to moderate sleep apnea and you want the SnoreGuard, you will probably have to pay the 50% because it is a dental device. Sorry.
QUESTION:
How much does it cost for a Oral Mandibular Advancement Device for sleep apnea?
I have tried a cpap for sleep apnea and I just cant get used to it. I have made an appointment with a dentist for the oral device. Has anyone gotten? How much does it cost?
- ANSWER:
  More than you can imagine.
QUESTION:
Sleep Apnea?
I’m sleep apnea. Tried the device that looks like you are going into outerspace, could NOT sleep. They say, surgery can make the condition worse. Any solutions?
- ANSWER:
  Not sure who is saying surgery makes it worse. I know someone right now who has had the surgery and was good for years and now has to have it again because some of the polyps have grown back.

Sleep Paralysis Treatment

Admin — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 10:44:09 +0000

Lack Of Sleep – Treatment Options

Sleep disorder or lack of sleep is a medical condition that abnormally influences the quality, duration and behavior of a person’s sleep. Depression, anxiety and other mood disorders; heartburn, menopause, diabetes and arthritis are some of the reasons for this condition. Night terrors, nightmares, sleepwalking, head banging, sleep talking, grinding the teeth and wetting the bed are other kinds of sleep problems. Sleep disorders will cause the immune system with consequential increases in viral and bacterial infections, depression, skin problems, headaches and much more. Whether it is caused by physical or mental factors, most sleep disorders can be managed or treated successfully once they are correctly diagnosed. Good dietary practices, regular sleep patterns and proper exercise are necessary to correct sleeping disorders.

Increased stresses and workloads of modern life often lead to sleep disorders. Many of such disorders are undetectable or may be left unconcerned or untreated that may lead to life-threatening issues such as strokes and permanent paralysis during the sleep. Numerous medications (tranquilizers) are available that claim to induce sound sleep or cure sleep disorders that may have different side effects associated. Therefore, people prefer alternative treatments for sleep disorders that herbal baths, infusions, herbal teas, herbal supplements etc that offer relaxation and stress free sleep without any ill effects. They may aid those people who need some extra support to achieve a good night’s sleep.

All the herbal supplements that claim to be prepared naturally may not be actually safe and healthy. It is advised to carefully go through the ingredients that actually stimulate sleep and discontinue it usage once you come across any unusual symptom such as headache, stomach upset etc. The herbs such as Valerian and hops have medicinal properties to treat sever insomnia and are used as active ingredients in the formation of sleep support supplements. Herbs with sedative properties such as passion flower, skullcap, chamomile are some of the many ingredients of the supplements. Selected amino acids such as L-Threonine and D-Phenylalanine, specialized nutrients such as Vinpocetine, SAMe, Resveratrol and Huperzine A, as well as other nutrients and co-factors are also used in the preparation. Herbs that not only promote sleep by relaxing nervous system, but also eliminate the symptoms of sleep disorders are also main constituents of these supplements.

Sleeping disorders can also treated through soothing herbal baths by adding herbal infusions to hot water at the time of sleep. Herbal baths in hot water activates the herbal extracts to pass through our skin into the blood stream, finally relaxing our nervous system to induce restful sleep. Taking herbal teas such as lemon balm tea, young pine tea, etc before bedtime offers excellent comforting sleep. Preparing herbal infusions with herbs such as fennel seeds, horsetail, peppermint leaves, orange blossoms, etc and mixing them with equal parts of the above said herbs can tranquil your nerves, thereby promoting peaceful sleep.

There are several light therapy treatments, melatonin hormone treatment, relaxation therapies, breathing device treatments, cognitive behavior therapy, psychotherapy etc to improve sleep patterns. In addition, practicing regular sleep schedules, eating healthy balanced diet, loosing weight, taking proper exercises, and avoiding alcohols, alcoholic beverages and caffeine are beneficiary lifestyle changes that work a lot in improving difficulty in sleeping.

About the Author:
Health Care Forums offers alternative treatment methods for Lack of Sleep or Insomnia. Read about best sleeping aid products from our website. We have special categories for colon cleansing, pain relief etc

Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Lack-Of-Sleep—Treatment-Options-/1057450

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
Has anyone who suffers sleep paralysis gotten treatment for it?
I have had it for years, now my son at age 15 is describing these horrific incidents. I feel for him going through what I went through and feel helpless for him.
- ANSWER:
  Sorry, It looks like the greys are checking up on their boy. I don’t think there’s a lot you can do about it.
QUESTION:
Is there any treatment available for sleep paralysis and night terrors?
It started to happen regular and i’m afraid to go to bed at night. I have to leave a light and radio on.

Is there anything a doctor can give you to help combat it?

I’m not sure what this is considered as. Whether it’s a health condition or not.
- ANSWER:
  A medical doctor can help you. Clonidine would be my first choice for medication, but I do not specialize in sleep disorders.
QUESTION:
What’s a good treatment for sleep paralysis?
Wake up during sleeping. Fully conscious, but body still asleep, unable to move.
- ANSWER:
  Modern Western medical thought says that sleep paralysis occurs when the brain awakes from the REM state, but the body is in a state of paralysis, which they say prevents the body from manifesting movements made in the subjects dreams and causes hallucinations, mostly of “evil presences in the room”. Yet they freely admit that very little is known about the physiology of sleep paralysis and that this is at best, a guess. There are several problems with this theory. One is that it is generally accompanied by the sense that there is something evil in the room and if it were only the result of people dreaming, even though their body is still asleep, why isnt there more people reporting all kinds very different dreams as you would expect, as opposed to almost identical experiences with this evil. The same story, the same feeling, and sometimes the same entity are being described by people who have had no contact with one another, or have ever heard of SP before. I think it is helpful at this point to hear what other cultures have believed about SP for hundreds of years.
  
  In Persian culture a ghost-like creature
  Malay Peninsula they are reported as demonic figures.
  In Tamil and Sri Lankan a “ghost that forces one down”.
  In the Muslim culture jinns or demons
  In Ethiopian culture some form of evil spirit.
  Zimbabwean Shona culture some spirit—especially an evil one
  In Greece and Cyprus, a ghost-like creature or Demon
  Yoruba of Southwest Nigeria demon
  In Malta, folk culture attributes a sleep paralysis to ghosts
  In Iceland folk culture A goblin or a succubus
  In Chinese culture, “ghost pressing on body”
  Vietnamese culture, “held down by a ghost
  n Hmong culture, or “crushing demon
  In Cambodian, Laotian, and Thai culture ghosts.
  
  ….Link to the rest of the article and how to stop it below.
QUESTION:
treatment for sleep paralysis?
I’ve been suffering from this problem like more than 10yrs now… they said most people will experience sleep paralysis at least once or twice in their lives, but me, I experience it like 4 to 5 times a week. I’m used to it but sometimes it really bothers me. Like RIGHT NOW, i got up coz Ive experienced it again and doing this post to know if theres any treatment or solution to solve this problem. Some people experience this like 5 to 10 seconds, some minutes but mine, it wont stop till I force my self to move..I have to wake myself up or else get stuck for hours with my sleep paralyzed problem..

Hoping to get some answers….
- ANSWER:
  Long term, chronic sleep paralysis often occurs as a result of another sleep disorder, as well as some mental illnesses. Do Have another sleep disorder or mental illness? If you do, be sure you are receiving adequate treatment for these conditions. Often a change in treatment of these pre-existing conditions solves the problem. You should also try and practice good sleep hygiene. This means going to sleep and getting up at the same time everyday, even weekends; getting at least half an hour of exercise daily; eating a well balanced diet; avoiding caffeine and other stimulants for at least four hours before sleep; and avoiding vigorous activities before sleep, such as exercise, as well as the computer and television, as many people have difficulty sleeping after using these appliances, usually do to their high light intensity.
  
  If you have tried the above, then you should see your doctor about this problem. IF you have already done so, maybe it is time to be re-evaluated, if you haven’t, please schedule an appointment. Before your appointment, keep a sleep diary and report any and all occurrences, whether they were accompanied by hallucinations, or senses of impending doom or anxiety, as well as what you did that day, including what you ate, and how much exercise you got. This will help you to be well prepared to answer any and all questions the doctor may have for you, as well as for you and s/he to observe and see if there is a pattern in these episodes. Be prepared to discuss your health history, including any known sleep disorders or any family history of sleep disorders. You doctor may give suggestions for you to try such as melatonin supplements, and/or prescribe a sleeping aid or an anti-anxiety/antidepressant medication to regulate sleep cycles, and if these methods fail, your doctor will probably refer you to a sleep specialist, or s/he may refer you directly to a sleep specialist. You may also be evaluated from symptoms of Migraine Disease, as Migraines commonly experience sleep paralysis, and the use of beta blockers can be helpful in reducing sleep paralysis episodes. You may also be scent to a mental health practitioner, as sleep paralysis is a symptom of many anxiety disorders.
  
  The sleep specialist will conduct overnight sleep studies or daytime nap studies to make sure you do not have another sleep disorder, as well as to analyze thew sleep paralysis that is occurring. This is important because often people who experience sleep paralysis have another sleep disorder, and treating this disorder often treats the sleep paralysis. These disorder and problems may include Narcolepsy, Restless Leg Syndrome, Sleep Apnea, Hypopnea syndrome, Cataplexy, Parasomnias, and Periodic limb movement disorder. The sleep specialist will then treat the often underlying sleep condition, which should relieve sleep paralysis. If no condition is found, and you primary care physician did not do so, the sleep specialist may prescribe sleeping aids or antidepressants to try and help regulate sleep cycles.
  
  A mental health practitioner will evaluate you for mental illness, especially anxiety disorders. If any mental illnesses should be found, you would most likely be treated with antidepressants and/or anti-psychotics, as well as with behavioral therapy and counseling.
  
  I’m not going to lie to you. It may take a long time to get any reactions from doctor, or to receive any treatment. Do not give up. Keep pushing. Research all of the conditions stated above. Ask your doctor about them. Make sure yo get a referral to a sleep specialist, as well as a mental health practitioner. Many GP’s are not well informed on this subject and may not take you seriously.
  
  Good luck!
QUESTION:
where would i go to for advice/treatment for sleep paralysis?
just happened to me again and i really dont like it
oh god,
not something that serious
- ANSWER:
  I had it off and on all night the other day.
  I know how you feel, it’s miserable..
  Especially when my head is under the covers feels like I’m gonna sufficate..
  
  Are you over weight?
  
  I am and have sleep apnea i wonder if it has anything to do with it?
  
  maybe exercise and eat right if you are..
  
  if not.. sorry for wasting your time..
  
  hope it gets better dear.

Sleep Disordered Breathing

Admin — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 08:09:57 +0000

Comprehensive Sleep Wellness Center Discusses Pediatric Sleep Apnea

The American Academy of Sleep says, “Good nighttime sleep at a very early age may help kick-start cognitive development and give kids a leg-up in school. The amount of nighttime sleep – not daytime naps – is the key component to advanced executive function in children.”

Apnea is a broad term which encompasses breathing disturbances. Adult sleep apnea results from the collapse of the upper airway during inspiration. This is the result of decreased neurologic drive from the brain to dilate the upper airway muscles while asleep. And while the causes of sleep apnea may differ between children and adults, symptoms can be quite similar.

What are the symptoms of pediatric sleep disorder breathing?

On occasion children may demonstrate adult symptoms such as:

* Snoring
* Tiredness
* Dry mouth in the morning
* Restless sleep
* Sweaty sleep

In children, however, manifestations of sleep deprivation due to any cause, including sleep disordered breathing, is quite different from adults and includes:

* Inattention
* Hyperactivity
* Impulsivity
* Social difficulties
* Disruptive behavior
* Bad grades

With treatment to eliminate sleep apnea, these outcomes can be reversed and your child can resume his or her healthy and productive developmental years. Treatment of sleep apnea also prevents the strain placed on the heart and lungs by recurrent drops in oxygen and repeated awakenings during the night, which can result in hypertension and heart disease.

What types of sleep disordered breathing are seen in children?

The types of sleep disordered breathing most often found in children are:

* Obstructive sleep apnea
* Central sleep apnea
* Upper airway resistance syndrome
* Simple snoring
* Apnea of infancy
* Obstructive hypoventilation

About Author
At http://comprehensivesleepwellness.com/index.html Comprehensive Sleep Wellness Center of Knoxville, TN we focus on you. You: an individual with specific needs to consider before, during and after diagnosis and treatment.

Source: http://www.sooperarticles.com/health-fitness-articles/sleep-articles/comprehensive-sleep-wellness-center-discusses-pediatric-sleep-apnea-395702.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
What are the symtoms of a breathing related sleep disorder ? Can they mimic ADD?
- ANSWER:
  I do know what you are referring to. I did read in a medical journal awhile back about hyperactivity and symptoms similar to ADHD in children being related to a sleep disorder.
  
  I did a quick yahoo search for you and here’s an article:
  
  http://www.dukenews.duke.edu/2004/10/sleep_1004.html
QUESTION:
Do you stop breathing when you sleep?
My husband snores really bad and at times I swear he stops breathing for a good 15-30 seconds.. Is this a sleep disorder?
- ANSWER:
  yea every once in awhile.
  that is sleep apnea. they give you a mask which blows air into your throat while you sleep to keep the airway open. there is a surgery option too i believe but i’m not sure how reliable that is. check the wesites the other posters left for you. good luck.
QUESTION:
Can Sleep Apnea just be Asthma?
Ever since I was 9, I was diagnosed with Asthma. It has ruined my life. I’m obese, when i never was. See, in middle school, because of my Asthma, I was taken out of gym class. Same with high school. Anyways, now I’m 20 years old, still obese, but now I’ve be diagnosed with Sleep Apnea. I have a CPAP machine (level 11). I was wondering if my asthma could be all that I have. Here is my theory, OSA and nocturnal asthma are both “sleep-disordered breathing” according to an article written by Robert C. Basner. I’m wondering if my asthma kicked in, and I started coughing (which I’ve done before, not every night, but I’ve been known to wake myself my up when I cough) and if the Sleep Study people thought I had Sleep Apnea because of the coughing. Also, my hospital and doctor’s office are completely dumb. I’ve had other problems with this facility before. But, without that that, do you think that I was diagnosed with Sleep Apnea when maybe all it was, was my Asthma? Any help would be great.
- ANSWER:
  While on the surface they may look the same to you they are completely different. Yes they may both wake you up multiple time during the night coughing and gasping for breath but that’s where the similarities stop. OSA is a very serious condition that is diagnosis via a sleep study. During the test they measure the number of time you actually stop breathing and how long you oxygen level in the blood drops. (Remember that annoying little thing you wore on your finger) Most people with sleep apnea start at a level of 5 to 7 and work up from there. You stated that you are at 11. So you are at a medium level, therefore, you must have a fairly bad case of OSA. Asthma should not limit you from gym class or other normal activity, nor should it cause you to become obese. If you are having asthma symptoms while exercising than you need a change in your medication regime. If you are having difficulty with you doctor, your the boss. Find a new one. All patient’s with asthma should be seen by a board certified pulmonologist and have a full course of education performed by a certified asthma educator. Once you’ve done this you should set up an appointment with a registered dietation and get help on setting up a heathly, varied diet that you can live with and that includes the food that you like. Finally, get out and start exercising. Start slowly and work up as it gets easy. Do you know that your insurance company can help you with this. Many of them will even reimburse you for part of your health club fees as it helps to lower you cost to them when you stay healthy.
QUESTION:
Is there a way I can test if I have sleep apnea without having a sleep study?
I suspect I have it, as I have the symptoms of it. But I think my classmates would have said if I stopped breathing while sleeping in class (I was always sleeping almost all day, every day in school). Which is why I lost my place in school.

So, is there any way I can test If I have sleep apnea without having a sleep study? or any similar sleep disorders?
- ANSWER:
  Essentially, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a medical diagnosis. In consequence, your analysis for this sleeping disorder would need to be confirmed by a physician.
  
  Due to the critical nature of this malady, professional treatment is necessary as airway blockage can cause you to stop breathing for periods of up to 20 seconds at a time. This can occur as often as every few minutes throughout the entire night.
  
  Under normal conditions, the muscles found at the back of your throat continually hold your airway open so air can get to your lungs. These muscles relax somewhat as you sleep. Yet, if your airway is markedly narrow, these muscles can actually block your airway when they relax.
  Typically, symptoms such as mood changes, depression, irritability, sudden waking from sleep, shortness of breath, waking with a dry mouth or sore throat, morning headaches, chronic loud snoring, and possibly memory problems, remain common in OSA.
  
  The following scale is employed to determine likelihood of OSA. Take the test and see where you fall in the probability ranking.
  
  The Epworth Sleepiness Scale
  
  How likely are you to doze off or fall asleep in the situations described below under normal circumstances (i.e., excluding times of over-exertion and sleep deprivation)?
  Use the following scale to choose the most appropriate number for each situation:
  0 = Would never doze
  1 = Slight chance of dozing
  2 = Moderate chance of dozing
  3 = High probability of dozing
  
  Situation (rate each on a scale of 0-3)
  •sitting and reading
  •watching TV
  •sitting, inactive, in a public place (i.e., theatre or meeting)
  •as a car passenger without a break for an hour
  •lying down to rest in the afternoon as circumstances permit
  •sitting and talking to someone
  •sitting quietly after lunch (without alchohol)
  •in a car, driving, but while stopped for a few minutes in traffic
  
  If your points total 10 or more, you are considered borderline sleep-deprived. If 12 or higher, you should seek medical attention immediately.
QUESTION:
I need advice on how to sleep through the night with my allergies.?
My room is cleaned and vaccumed every day. The air vents re cleaned. I;ve tryed the ac and ive tryed keeping my windows opened, and i’m still having trouble with my indoor allergies. I’m allergic to mold and dustmites, and wake up in the middle of the night an the morning having trouble breathing.
I do not have a sleeping disorder and do not have sleep apnea. I do have a movement disorder but that is not the problem. Keeping my windows open at night helps a bit but i’m very sensitive to sounds and now that is getting n my way to stay asleep. Anyone have any ideas on how to better sleep with indoor allergies?
- ANSWER:
  I totally agree with what everyone has said (well most of them). To add to what they have said, if you have curtains, get rid of them and have only sheers. Curtains hold dust but sheers are not as heavy and will not hold the amount of dust that curtains do.
  
  Also, if you do get a humidifier then be careful with it because if it gets too moist in your room that can still make you sick because mold generally forms in very moist area.
  
  You mentioned vaccuming every day, is there any way you can get rid of the carpet? That too can be a part of the culprit. If you cannot get rid of the carpet, then what cleaning products are you using?
  
  You will definitely want to switch allergy medications. Make sure to see your doctor and let him/her know the problems you’re having.
  
  Good luck & I hope you get to feeling better.

Sleep Apnea Information

Admin — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 23:56:10 +0000

Sleep Apnea Weight Gain – How Do People With Sleep Apnea Gain Weight?

Is there such a thing as sleep apnea weight gain? That means gaining weight because you have sleep apnea. People are asking this question. Science has an answer. Read this article to find out what is the answer and what can you do if you are in this particular situation.

As you probably know, sleep apnea (SA) is a medical condition which is characterized by interruptions of the breathing, these periods when the person stops breathing ranging from a few seconds to a minute. In this can happen many times during the night. Because of this blockage in breathing the sufferer wakes up frequently during the night.

People go through five stages during their sleep:

Stage 1: Drowsiness
Stage 2: Light Sleep
Stage 3: Deep Sleep
Stage 4: Slow-Wave Deep Sleep
Stage 5: REM (Rapid eye movement)

Due to the waking up so many times during the time the apnea suffer can’t get into the deep sleep stages, and especially into REM.

The result of sleep apnea is a poor quality sleep and also a shorter actual time spent in deep, replenishing sleep. Several studies undergone have shown that a lack of sleep is connected with obesity.

And now, regarding the sleep apnea weight gain, to explain how people with SA gain weight we have to consider the effect of hormones.

One hormone, called ghrelin, is in charge with boosting the appetite and stopping the loss of weight. Studies have revealed that a lack of sleep leads to an increase of this hormone.

There is another hormone, leptin, which suppresses the appetite. In persons who suffer from sleeplessness this hormone decreases and so, by this double action, people are left to the mercies of a greedy appetite and an inability to lose weight, even when dieting and exercising.

That is the simple explanation for the sleep apnea weight gain. So, the answer is clear: there is a connection between apnea and weight gain and the mechanism is just the one described. This information is very important.

Now, if you are caught in this vicious circle, what can you do? To lose weight you should sleep better. It is recommended sleeping at least 7 hours per night. And in order to have a deep, uninterrupted sleep you need to sort out the sleep apnea. People who have been treated for SA have lost weight even if prior to treating this sleeping disorder they were unsuccessful dieting and exercising.

About the author: The first step to stop the weight gain is to read about the type of sleep apnea test that you can take to determine if you suffer from this sleep disorder and then to find out what sleep apnea cures are available. For this and other useful information visit this site SleepApneaNatural.com.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sleep-articles/sleep-apnea-weight-gain-how-do-people-with-sleep-apnea-gain-weight-1901406.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
What are some books I can read to research the mental issues caused after a person has sleep apnea?
I am doing an assignment on the mental conditions caused after a person is diagnosed with sleep apnea. This means what type of issues they mentally encounter as a result of sleep apnea (such as depression, changes the must do in their environment etc.) And I would like some literature to read and information that Sleep Apnea causes that most would not be aware to know about.
- ANSWER:
  there are tons of sites dedicated to sleep ( after all you spend like 1/3 of your life doing it.)
  
  jsut google ” sleep book”
  or “sleeping disorder”
  
  you will have more than you can read .
QUESTION:
any information on sleep apnea?
so my dad has severe sleep apnea. its mixed apnea (obstructive and central) and he has episodes 70 times a night. he uses a machine (CPAP or BiPAP) to breathe.

what does this mean? will he be okay? is his life in danger?
- ANSWER:
  Hello Nicole,
  
  there are a lot of information about sleep apnea. You can find books about this disorder in shops, or you can read interesting things from internet or from my guide about sleep apnea:
QUESTION:
where can i find useful information on sleep apnea?
- ANSWER:
  WebMD is one place – www.webmd.com.
QUESTION:
Does anyone have any information regarding tongue retaining devices for use with sleep apnea?
Although my sleep study showed that the AHI was reduced to around 10 an hour, the dental appliance is causing TMJ pain and my bite is totally off. Since my problem is that my tongue slides back closing the airway, I wonder if a device such as the Aveo might work. Any ideas??
- ANSWER:
  Thats a tough one. Three people in my family have sleep apnea but I haven’t heard any of them talking about there tongue assisting in causing the problem. I would talk to your dentist and your physician about what you can get. You could probably even go to Walgreens for advice. You could try getting a mouth guard to sleep in. Helps to prevent grinding and such. Hope you find something to help you!
QUESTION:
What is the best mask to use for sleep apnea?
I understand their are newer versions of sleep masks to use for sleep apnea suffers. Any information
- ANSWER:
  I think the best mask for you would depend on what you can tolerate having on your face.
  
  There are 3 different types of masks for CPAP’s: Full face masks, nasal masks and nasal pillows.
  
  In my opinion the best full face mask out there is a Resmed Ultra Mirage, or a Resmed Mirage Quattro. The reason I feel that they are the best if because of the ease of removal. They have clips in the front of the mask versus some of the other brands that just use a ball and hook closure method. Full face masks are great if you don’t have facial hair, and you sleep with your mouth open (which CPAP doesn’t always alleviate), or if you have frequent sinus problems that keep your nose clogged. The down side to them is that if you toss and turn a lot they are hard to keep a seal with. If you are claustrophobic at all- then you wouldn’t like a full face mask.
  
  Nasal masks are good for patients who want a mask that isn’t nearly as much a hassle as full face masks. They don’t cover as much of your face, and you can use them with a chin strap if you have a problem keeping your mouth closed. There are several good ones, but my favorite would have to be a Comfortgel. The ring that touches your face is made of gel, and according to my patients is comfortable. The down side is that that gel breaks down pretty quickly, and the mask needs to be replaced about every 6 months. A good alternative is a Comfort Fusion. The ring is made out of silicone, and can be replaced without having to get a whole new mask.
  
  The hottest item available now is called a nasal pillow. There are several brands out there, but my favorite (and the favorite of my patients) is called an Optilife Nasal Pillow. This mask has 2 small straps that come down the side of your face, a built in chin strap, and small pillows that fit inside your nose. It’s lightweight, great if you toss and turn- and doesn’t cover much of your face at all. Another couple of nasal pillows that are out there- and are worthless- are the Resmed “Swift” nasal pillows, and the Breeze Sleep Gear. Don’t waste your time on those!
  
  There are some new forms of masks out there as well. One is called a Resmed Mirage Liberty. It has nasal pillows, and a mask that covers your mouth all in one piece. I’m not really fond of them, but I do know that they are available.
  
  Whatever you decide on, make sure that it’s comfortable. If you don’t like your mask you won’t use your machine, and there are lots of options available through most DME companies. I would ask to speak to one of their Respiratory Therapists since the RT’s will know the most about your choices. Good luck to you!

Cure For Sleep Apnea

Admin — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 01:42:38 +0000

Discover the Natural Cure For Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a disorder that causes people to have difficulties sleeping. Symptoms include holding your breath in the middle of the night (sometimes for minute-long intervals) and snoring. This is a very serious condition, as it prevents oxygen from getting to the brain and the blood stream, which in turn, affects the heart. Severity of this condition ranges from light snoring problems to holding your breath for long periods of time for several intervals a night. Some minor effects of sleep apnea are having trouble concentrating and not having enough energy during the day. In some of the more serious cases, people have actually died from apnea complications.

Currently, doctors prescribe treatments for apnea; however, these treatments do not address the source of the problem. Doctors treat the symptoms, which in some cases can be beneficial, but there are natural ways that one can treat apnea. These are treatments that most doctors, for whatever reason, will not prescribe for sleep apnea. Doctors will tell people to do anything from losing weight, stop smoking, and stop drinking alcohol to getting surgery or to buying a CPAP machine. Out of these options, surgery has proven to be somewhat helpful in treating apnea. Changing one’s lifestyle does not help to treat apnea, although in some cases, it can make someone the least bit healthier in other aspects of their life. Nobody really wants to sleep while they are attached to a machine that pushes air up their nose.

There are many herbs that help a person to relax and, in turn, sleep better. A few of these known herbs are the well-known Chamomile and lesser-known Cramp Bark. These allow a person to fall asleep much easier than using a CPAP machine. Two more herbs that help to treat apnea are Lobelia and Thyme. Together, these herbs help a person breath deeper and at a steady rate. As with all things, there is a downside to taking herbal remedies as well. Sometimes, mixing them with prescriptions or with other herbal remedies can result in adverse effects. Also, doctors do not generally recommend herbs in place of prescription medicines, so people are required to do their own research on herbal treatments to find reliable sources. Overall, however, there are fewer (or zero, in many cases) side effects with herbal treatments.

http://natures-herbal-solutions.net/

About the author: For More Information, Visit http://myapnearemedy.com/

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sleep-articles/discover-the-natural-cure-for-sleep-apnea-1040759.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
How well does a tonsillectomy cure sleep apnea?
I have sleep apnea and have a tonsillectomy scheduled for later this year. How well does this fix sleep apnea?
- ANSWER:
  Tonsillectomies alone do not ‘cure’ sleep apnea. Surgical remedies for sleep apnea usually are for those patients that do not respond well to other treatments, usually surgery is a last resort.
  
  The correct term for the surgery is called a Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, it removes parts or all of the uvula, soft palate, tonsils, adenoids, and pharynx. Its success rate is about 50%. Basically its a coin flip.
  
  The tonsillectomy could work, only if its enlarged. Same goes with the other parts that I listed above. The enlarged tissue(s) tend to obstruct your airway when you sleep, especially when you lie on your back.
  
  I would recommend getting a second opinion and see if your doctor would recommend a sleep study performed on you. Also check with your insurance if it is covered.
  
  Usually, sleep apnea can be resolved with diet and treatment using a CPAP machine (Continous Positive Airway Pressure). It can significantly improve your sleep.
  
  Good luck and have a good night’s sleep!
QUESTION:
What is a cure for sleep apnea outside of ?
having a machine. I took a pulmonary test the doc says I have sleep apnea. Any cure outside of the breathing machine?
- ANSWER:
  weight loss if you are overweight, surgery to pull your tongue or jaw forward if it is obstructive sleep apnea.
QUESTION:
what is the best cure for sleep apnea?
I’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea. What is a good way to get cured ot if? Does smoking affect it? Does weight?
- ANSWER:
  im a sleep tech (working right now) and i will say that the best way to treat apnea is with the cpap/bipap machine (google it). weight can play a factor so if u loose weight it will help. usually after going on the cpap machine you will feel better rested,more energetic and willing to exercise and loose wieght. the more wieght you loose you will need less pressure and hopefully not need the machine anymore. but somtimes thin people have apnea too and it may be due to excess tissue in the throat that can be removed with surgery, but it is painful, and does not always work and you may need to go to cpap therapy anyhow. it may be the structure of your neck/jaw (many asians have apnea problems) this is somting you cant really do much about. If your apnea is mild and consists of mostly snoring, you can try the oral appliance whitch is like wearing a retainer and it pulls your lower jaw forward. you get that at the dentist. its expensive and not all insurance covers it and it will only work if you are mild or just snore. hope this helps:)
QUESTION:
Tonsillectomy to cure sleep apnea
I have enlarged tonsils and when I look at my throat in the mirror I can see how the tonsils and uvula come together to create a blockage when I simulate snoring. I am scheduled for a tonsillectomy and UPPP in 8 weeks. Would this likely fix (or at least greatly improve) my sleep apnea since my tonsils are enlarged?
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
Is there a cure for sleep apnea?
I’ve been having sleep apnea for a few years now. My roomates keep complaining about it. Is there any way to fix it?
also I’m aware that its a weight issue im working on that right now. I was just wonder if there was like some kind of breathing exercise or something to help it for the time being.
- ANSWER:
  Sometimes it can be frightening and sometimes, it can be annoying. The fact of the matter is this: if you have OSA, you are already waking up many, many times a night because your body is telling you that it needs some air. You just don’t realize that it is happening. However, when you wake up the next day, you are not rested, you fall asleep when you are not intending to, it is all very frustrating.
  
  Obstructive Sleep Apnea happens when the airway closes with an obstruction and the person can no longer take a breath in. They will make the effort to breathe yet they will not be able to get any air in. The heart rate slows, the oxygen level in the body drops and the body fights to breathe. It is something like drowning or suffocation. Because the oxygen level in the body drops, there are serious consequences to not dealing with ones Obstructive Sleep Apnea. The following are things that can possible happen with someone who ignores their OSA:
  
  1. Never Rested, irritable, stress increases
  2. Right sided heart failure (cor pulmonale)
  3. Pulmonary Hypertension
  4. Death
  
  This is your brain! This is your brain without sleep!
  
  Your body and brain need sleep to function normally. The body needs a good amount of deep sleep called REM sleep. This is the sleep when we dream. People with sleep apnea are waking up so often during the night without even knowing it, to gasp for a breath of air, that they never really get to fall into that deep sleep so necessary for the body to rest. Without the correct amount of rest for the brain, it becomes tired.
  
  A person with sleep apnea might fall asleep during the day just because they are tired. Memory losses have been tied to sleep apnea.
  
  Accidents at the job and on the road happen when a person is unable to sleep a sound sleep. Narcalepsy is where a person can be awake one moment and then zippity do dah they are asleep. This can be misdiagnosed in someone who has sleep apnea.
  
  Mood changes can also happen when the mind is unable to rest. A person might be the nicest guy in the world….suddenly explode and hate everyone.
  
  Depression and anxiety are also effects of sleep apnea.
  This happens though out the time when the person is sleeping. The strain on the heart is very serious and several things can occur.
  
  1. High Blood Pressure
  
  The heart is working hard and pumping hard and not getting a lot of work done, the blood pressure goes up.
  
  2. Right sided heart failure (cor pulmonale)
  
  What happens when the heart tries and to get oxygen from the lungs, it becomes enlarged on the right side and begins not to be able to pump the way it should. Right sided heart failure. This can result in Pulmonary Hypertension, which is very, very difficult to treat.
  
  3. Heart Attack
  
  The heart is saying, “I need oxygen, I need oxygen, I need oxygen, I am dying, I need oxygen…heart attack….”
  
  4. Stroke
  
  Same as the above. The brain needs oxygen to work. When it doesn’t get it for extended periods of time, the brain can die.
  5. Cardiac Arrest
  
  The body is not made to go with out breathing for too long at all. The oxygen in the body is quickly consumed. The carbon dioxide level continues to climb with no where to go but the blood. The pH of the blood in the body falls. If it gets low enough, the body dies. The heart dies. The brain dies. Everything stops…Cardiac Arrest.
  
  Treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnea are as follows:
  
  The most common form of treatment is CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure). This device will help keep the airways open. If you have ever watched anyone sleep who has obstructive sleep apnea, it might seem strange for a while, then, it gets familiar, and then it turns into, “well, that is just how he sleeps.” It is dangerous not to get Obstructive Sleep Apnea treated. A lot of people refuse to wear CPAP because, “it looks funny”, “it feels uncomfortable”, “it blows in my eyes”. Whatever the reason, it is better to go ahead and wear the CPAP then to make excuses not to wear it.
  
  When you go and see your Pulmonologist, he/she will recommend a sleep study. At the sleep study, they will hook you up to all kinds of different devices to see how you are sleeping. If indeed you do have OSA, the most common form of treatment is CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure).
  
  This device will help keep the airways open.
  
  If you have ever watched anyone sleep who has obstructive sleep apnea, it might seem strange for a while, then, it gets familiar, and then it turns into, “well, that is just how he sleeps.” It is dangerous not to get Obstructive Sleep Apnea treated. A lot of people refuse to wear CPAP because, “it looks funny”, “it feels uncomfortable”, “it blows in my eyes”. Whatever the reason, it is better to go ahead and wear the CPAP then to make excuses not to wear it.
  
  There is surgery to remove the excess tissue of the throat. I have only seen this done twice. Once was a friend of mine. She said her throat was sore for months. It is a more drastic, invasive measure, but it is also used to correct this problem.
  
  I say which ever way you use to help you keep breathing at night is good. Just don’t ignore the problem. It will not go away and will eventually lead to you being hooked up to more invasive devices than the CPAP machine.
  
  It is better to breathe than to not breathe

Sleep Apnea Cpap

Admin — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 17:19:48 +0000

Two Most Popular Machines Of Sleep Apnea – CPAP and BiPAP

Sleep apnea in layman’s term is described as a state of the body when the respiratory procedure stops for almost ten seconds during his sleep. This can happen up to four hundred times during the course of a single night’s sleep, and can have serious recursion son the health of the person sometimes even leading to death if it is not treated properly.

The cause of his peculiar disease varies from being hereditary to a unhealthy lifestyle system. Smoking, drinking, fatigue, stress and many other such reasons are responsible for sleep apnea. It can give rise to your blood pressure level, cause distraction in your work, make you feel irritated and even cause a accident while driving.

It’s obvious that sleep apnea is a serious problem. if you want a permanent solution then you can opt for surgery, however if you think your problem is not very critical then you can go for varioussleep apnea machines like CPAP, or BiPAP.

About the author: I’m Antoniohas written a number of medical treatment that were published in diffeirentpopular article directories via internet.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sleep-articles/two-most-popular-machines-of-sleep-apnea-cpap-and-bipap-2296514.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
sleep apnea cpap masks : what are sleep apnea cpap masks ? How can i get some sleep apnea cpap masks ?
hii everybody, i am George.. i am suffering from breathing problems while sleeping since 1 year. i have tried many things to get rid of this. but still i cannot find a way out. recently, my friend suggest me to use sleep apnea cpap masks. but i am ignorant of the fact that what are sleep apnea cpap masks ? and how can i get some sleep apnea cpap masks ? please help me
- ANSWER:
  To select the best CPAP mask you need to start with an understanding of the various types of masks available and the special features of each mask. CPAP therapy is exceedingly effective. In fact, its so effective that your doctor probably isn’t even interested in exactly why you have sleep apnea. If your doc suspects you may have it you will be enrolled in a nearby sleep clinic for a study and in a few weeks you’ll have a sleep machine in your bedroom. Though there are various types of Sleep Apean CPAP masks available like Nasal mask, Nasal pillow masks and Full face mask etc with different size. If you really need to get the suitable Sleep apnea cpap masks than i just suggest you to visit sleepdisorder website. you will every kind of Sleep apnea cpap masks on that site. More over they will provide you great services and support to get rid of your problem. link given below check and get what you want actually.
QUESTION:
What alternatives are effective for sleep apnea, besides CPAP?
I can’t afford a CPAP machine right now. Are there any other alternatives that help with sleep apnea? I’ve tried a dental device before, but it hurts my jaw and teeth too much. Surgery is also not an option right now due to the cost. Is there anything else that can be done? I’m trying to lose weight, so no need to tell me that, either.
- ANSWER:
  It may be worth revisiting the sleep apnea mouthpiece option. If you can get it into hot water before putting it in for the first time it should mould to your features better and be less uncomfortable
QUESTION:
Can you improve performance of the sleep apnea CPAP machine on your own, without docs’ help?
My brother has been prescribed the CPAP and can’t tell much difference in his sleep. He is due to go for a checkup to the sleep clinic and doesn’t want to tell them this because he’s afraid they will make him go through another 00 worth of sleep tests to adjust settings or something.

So if he can make the CPAP thing work better without having to tell the docs, it will help his health and checking account. Anybody know about this?

Thanks =D
- ANSWER:
  Some doctors will just up the pressure based on the symptoms. They can also use what is called an autopap. The cpap sense what the body needs and give the proper pressure. That can be his nightly machine or the DME company can loan it for a week to see what the setting should be.
  
  Also if he just started, it may take a few weeks to a month to see any results.
QUESTION:
Does the United Healthcare Choice Plus insurance plan cover pre-existing sleep apnea CPAP treatments?
I have been on a CPAP for 18 months now, and acquired United Healthcare Choice Plus insurance several months ago. Will they cover my masks, CPAP and future sleep treatments?
- ANSWER:
  If it is a group plan there will probably be coverage subject to a waiting period. If you had insurance immediately prior to getting this plan the waiting period will probably have been waived.
  
  If it is an individual plan there will be a waiting period of 6 to 12 months depending upon which state you live in.
QUESTION:
what other alternatives r there for sleep apnea cpap?
my nasil nostril area is narrow. i cant get enough air with a mask. i got them to raise the presure again. noluck. i breathe only thru my nose when i sleep. had a deviated septum n turbinates removed. it did nothing. went thru insomnia pills . nothing. what else can i try.
- ANSWER:
  Have you tried a full face mask (Resmed Quattro or Respironics Comfort Gel Full)? They are similar to the nasal masks except that they also cover your mouth. They allow you to breathe through your mouth and still get the benefits of CPAP.

Sleep Apnea Cure

Admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 21:23:14 +0000

How To Cure Sleep Apnea Naturally – Cure Sleep Apnea Without Cpap ????

How To Cure Sleep Apnea Naturally – Find more about Cure Sleep Apnea Without Cpap

Maybe it has to do with the last food intake after dinner before hitting the bed.

WHAT IS SNORING?
———————–
There may still be other reasons why the snoring comes at night.And also that it could have been only the way to release exhaustion unconsciously..It can actually happen anytime of the day as we sleep and not just at night.It is also told to be that a person’s air pathways can be larger than normal that it makes the tissues more probe to vibrate as compared to those who have normal sizes of throats.

TYPES OF SNORING
———————–
It leaves your mouth open and tends the throat tissues to vibrate as you inhale and exhale through your mouth.It could be that the back of the tongue is blocking some parts of the passage ways and causes the sound that produces the snoring.The size of the tongue or the position of the tongue when you sleep had to do with it.Snoring while sleeping any time of the day; this state however maybe a little more in question since the snores occur in any time of the day or night the moment you doze off.

More Info About How To Cure Sleep Apnea Naturally

About the author: Find more about how to cure sleep apnea naturally

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sleep-articles/how-to-cure-sleep-apnea-naturally-cure-sleep-apnea-without-cpap-2431812.html

Sleep Apnea Symptom

Admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 02:32:21 +0000

Identifying Sleep Apnea Symptom in Children

One very common sleep disorder affecting children today is the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. This sleep disorder is known to cause daytime attention and behavioral problems in children. Unlike in adults, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in children is hard to identify. This makes sleep apnea symptom recognition important.

What usually happens in an obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is that the muscles along the walls of the throat loosen up as the child sleeps. Because of this, the walls cave in and hinder the flow of air. After about 30 seconds, the child stirs to a lighter stage of sleep or brief restlessness. The muscles then become constricted, which decreases the obstacle, and the child is able to breathe again. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in children typically starts between 3 and 6 years old, where the most common factor at that age is distended tonsils and adenoids.

Not all people who snore have sleep apnea syndrome. In fact, 10-20 percent of normal children experience primary snoring, whether regular or irregular. However, snoring is a sleep apnea symptom that is considered one of the main signs. But apart from snoring, there are other symptoms for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in children. These include the following:

About the author: Get more about sleep apnea symptom in adults and children. Get the right sleep disorder remedy now.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diseases-and-conditions-articles/identifying-sleep-apnea-symptom-in-children-348339.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
Is a swollen floor of the mouth a symptom in sleep apnea?
at first my floor of my mouth was swollen and still is and now also my tongue and throat are swollen. My speech is impeded and the outside of my neck under the chin area looks swollen and now I have sleep apnea symptoms too and will be going to a sleep clinic.
- ANSWER:
  One of the most common symptom of sleep apnea is snoring. But this is not so dangerous…When your breathing stops during sleep, then you have a typical sleep apnea symptom.
  
  Anyway, congratulations for you sleep test!
QUESTION:
Is a symptom of sleep apnea itching… down there at night?
I get up a lot to pee at night. I wake up gasping for air. I snore until I wake up gasping for air. I’m exhausted daily…. but I also seem to get itchy down there every night too.. is that a sleep apnea symptom???
- ANSWER:
  as embarrassing as it is to admit,…..yup!
  
  you need to get a sleep study done, get a CPAP machine that will help you with the apnea at night. you’ll be well rested-have energybonanza, be alert all day, not have to get up a gajillion times each night running to the rest room pee, and the itchies go away!!!
  
  also, once you have a CPAP machine, you get a discount on your electric bill anywhere in the u.s.
  
  p.s. most health insurances cover this but you may have to get a referral from your normal doctor first
QUESTION:
If this is a symptom of Centralized sleep apnea, what underlying disease could it be?
# If other symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, voice changes of body weakness or numbness, this may indicate an underlying disease that is affecting the nervous system.
- ANSWER:
  try this site out: http://symptoms.webmd.com/symptomchecker you can chose and add the symptoms and it will give you several possibilities…
QUESTION:
Other than obesity, is sleep apnea a symptom of any other underlying conditions?
- ANSWER:
  Sure, hypothyroidism comes to mind.
QUESTION:
Sleep Apnea?
I recently read that excessive sweating in children is a symptom of sleep apnea.
My daughter is about 3 and used to sweat really bad as a baby but doesnt anymore.
My son is almost 1 and is the same way. He sweats SO bad while he sleeps, it amazes me that he cant sleep with a blanket even when his skin is cold to the touch. He sleeps with a binki so he doesnt breathe through his mouth all the time. But he fusses all through out the night. I always figured it was because he was hot because he thrashes around while he’s fussing.
Could this be sleep apnea or could I just have hot natured babies?
- ANSWER:
  they can’t regulate their own temperature so if he’s hot it’s because the room or his clothing is making him hot. Same if he’s cold. After 1 they gain this ability so I think that’s why you saw it in your 3 year old as a young baby but not so much now. I’m not saying it can’t be apnea, but just saying be careful to eliminate the obvious first because the risks of SIDS increase dramatically with overheated babies. Maybe he’s fluctuating temperature up and down a lot and that’s why he sweats but feels cold at times when you check him. Their temperature can be felt at the back of the neck and the chest, so be sure you aren’t just checking his arms/hands and they feel cold since that could just be circulation and actually he is very hot/too hot. Anyway, like I said maybe it is sleep apnea – I’d be curious to hear if either parents have it (my husband does terrible and so does his mother so I’d like to look into it myself) and I’m sorry if preaching to the choir but maybe someone else will read this and not overheat their baby thinking it’s possibly a peculiar sleeping condition.