I have been using a CPAP for over 10 years. There are good things and not so good things about it. The good thing is of course I do get more sleep at night. But I find that it takes me some time for me to get to sleep because I the mask uncomfortable.
Rela Edwardsof TN2:39PM March 06, 2009
As a sleep apnea patient using cpap and autopaps for 10 years I've learned there are other serious problems associated with OSA. About two thirds of patients who survive a stroke are found to have OSA and there is an indication that OSA can cause a stroke. A very strong relationship between OSA and diabetes is also found and painful reflux at night is also common.
While there are several approaches to treating OSA dental appliances appear to work for those with mild OSA and PAP (positive airway pressure) is considered the gold standard by many. Surgery, from what I have read, has been the least successful approach.
The difference between cpap and autopap devices is that autopaps adjust to your pressure needs throughout the night. For me it has eliminated the need for additional sleep studies over the past 14 years and has been especially important during these years when I have had to have surgery.
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Rela Edwards of TN 2:39PM March 06, 2009
Ken of OK 4:50PM March 03, 2009