CPAP Clinic - sleep disorder

CPAP Clinic

Sleep Apnea is an extremely common sleep disorder and one which is a serious risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease such as heart attack and stroke. It is relatively easily diagnosed and CPAP is one of the most effective and common treatments. Therefore adjustment to and compliance with CPAP is a major focus of the Alabama Sleep Clinic.

Your sleep doctor and the staff of the Alabama Sleep Clinic will work closely with you to help you adjust to CPAP if this is the recommended treatment. The Alabama Sleep Clinic may be able to provide equipment for you if this is your preference. Durable medical equipment companies (DMEs) may also be able to provide this equipment. Regardless of where you obtain equipment the staff of the Alabama Sleep Clinic will work diligently to facilitate your adjustment to this therapy.

CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure and consists primarily of a flow generator, tubing and mask with headgear. The flow generator usually sits on a nightstand and pulls in room air which then travels through a long flexible lightweight tube to a mask which most often fits snugly over the nose. The mask is held in place with headgear that usually consists of a soft elastic comfortable band. Once air reaches the mask it is not forced in the airway but rather overflows through vents/exhalation ports on the mask thus creating a greater pressure inside the mask than out. The higher pressure serves as a pneumatic or air splint keeping the airway from narrowing or collapsing during sleep. This gentle manner of holding the airway open allows for “normal” breathing enabling the brain to obtain deeper more refreshing sleep while removing the stress and strain sleep apnea places on the heart.

Many CPAP mask styles and sizes are available almost ensuring that there will be at least one right for you. Many of the most skeptical individuals are frequently surprised at how well they adjust to CPAP and subsequently how much better they feel. Spouses/bed partners are usually just as pleased with CPAP since snoring is typically eliminated as the flow generator creates a quiet relaxing “white noise”. Enter into treatment with a positive attitude and whether or not CPAP turns out to be the right therapy for you our staff will continue to help you manage your sleep apnea.