Sleep is something that we all need, and it is important to make sure that we get enough sleep each night. Every person is different, but on average humans need between 6 to 10 hours of restful sleep each evening. We can still function with less, but continued sleep deprivation, can have long-term health risks such as:
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Heart Disease
- Heart Failure
- Heart Attack
- High Blood Pressure
Sleep deprivation can also cause people to feel disorientated, clumsy, and forgetful; your judgement may be impaired, and a lack of sleep can even bring on depression, as well as feeling tired and lethargic. So when you have a sleep disorder such as sleep apnoea, it is important that you treat the condition correctly.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
When it comes to Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, usually the first option that physicians prescribe would be a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. These types of devices are suitable for treating anything from a mild, up to extreme cases. You wear a mask which can cover just the nose, or mouth as well; and also you can get a full facial mask, and this is strapped to your head comfortably so that it will not come off when you sleep.
The device provides a continuous flow of air, which keeps the air pressure inside your throat, preventing the muscles from relaxing too much and causing an apnoea event. Another benefit of this is also to help reduce snoring, in which your partner can benefit from as well. It is important that you follow the directions correctly otherwise you may not get the full benefit of the CPAP machine.
Alternatives to CPAP Machines
There are CPAP alternatives with a range of devices available to help combat other various forms of sleep apnoea. A Mandibular Advancement Splint can be used and is worn over the teeth in the same way that an orthodontic appliance, or gum shield, is worn.
A dentist will take an impression of your mouth, and create a custom fit prosthetic which will fit your mouth perfectly. The device will make your jaw sit in a slightly different position, making sure that the airways are kept open.
There is even a device called SomnoDent, which can be used as an alternative to a CPAP machine if you suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea. The device is custom fit to your mouth, and a splint is made for both the upper and lower jaw. These devices can also be adjusted so that you doctor can find the best setting for your condition, and help to make sleep apnoea a thing of the past.
Other conditions can cause sleep deprivation as well, and no matter what your symptoms are, it is important that you seek the help of a professional doctor. We should all take good care of our health, and as well as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, we also need to make sure that we rest well and get enough sleep every night. If you are in any doubt at all, speak to your doctor straight away.
This post is contributed by Regelene Taylor
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