If you struggle with the symptoms of sleep apnea, you’re not alone. Forty million Americans have some type of sleep disordered breathing, the most common problem being obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The good news is consistent treatment can have a profound affect on your well-being and quality of life.
According to experts in sleep therapy products at Pacific Pulmonary Services, the top ten reasons for sticking with your doctor’s prescribed therapy are:
1. You sleep better.
As your doctor may have explained to you, people with untreated OSA stop breathing repeatedly during their sleep, sometimes hundreds of times during the night. With each apnea event, your brain briefly arouses you to resume breathing. Consistent treatment with CPAP or Bi-level therapy can give you back the benefits of a full night’s restorative sleep.
2. Your spouse sleeps better.
Let’s face it: the fragmented sleep and loud snoring that accompany sleep apnea don’t just disturb your night, they keep your partner from a full night’s sleep too. And a better rested spouse is a happier spouse.
3. Feel better during the day.
Untreated OSA can lead to headaches, lack of energy, and problems with memory and concentration. People who regularly use their prescribed sleep therapy feel healthier and more alert.
4. Look better during the day.
Bags, anyone? As we age, serious lack of sleep shows up more prominently in our faces—dull complexions, dark circles, and fine lines. Untreated OSA also can lead to weight gain and a loss of vitality.
5. Reduce your risk of accidents.
Due to lack of quality, restorative sleep, people with untreated sleep apnea may suffer from job impairment, work-related accidents, and are more likely to die in a car accident.
6. Reduce your risk of a heart attack or cardiovascular disease.
Sleep apnea isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a major health hazard. Your heart needs sufficient oxygen to work properly, and when untreated, OSA can significantly increase your risk of hypertension, stroke, heart attack, congestive heart failure, and even death.
7. Improve your overall health.
In addition to the serious health issues above, untreated sleep apnea can lead to headaches, weight gain, impotency, and can significantly impact diabetes. Sticking to your sleep therapy can give you back a sense of well-being and vitality.
8. Reduce mood swings and feelings of depression.
Restorative sleep isn’t just good for your body; it’s good for your mind. Improving your mood can better your productivity at work and your relationships at home.
9. Increase your ability to exercise.
When you’re too tired to get through your most basic daily routine, there’s little chance of finding the energy to hit the gym or put your walking shoes to good use. A full night’s sleep can help you stick to a regular exercise routine, so you look and feel better.
10. Reduce your healthcare costs.
The serious health risks of untreated sleep apnea can lead to chronic diseases with considerable healthcare costs. Sticking with your therapy now can save you big bucks in the future.
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, remember that making a commitment to using your sleep therapy every night can truly mean living a longer, healthier, and more productive life.
Questions? Ask your doctor or visit Pacific Pulmonary Services online.
Sources:
Pacific Pulmonary Services, CPAP and Bi-Level Therapy Product Information for Customers
Ayas, Najib T, et. al. “Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Do the Dollars Make Sense?” SLEEP, Vol. 28, No. 10, 2005
antwon taylor is a http://www.ppsc.com/home oxygen and sleep therapy technician at pacific pulmonary services. pacific pulmonary services (pps) is one of the largest providers of home oxygen, sleep therapy and nebulized medications in the united states.
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