The Pros and Cons of a CPAP Machine

If you’ve been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea, chances are you’ve heard about using CPAP machines. While they have a lot of benefits, there are some cons attached as well. Review some of the pros and cons of using a CPAP machine to make the best decision for your health.

The Pros of CPAP Machines

Treat Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is very dangerous to be left untreated. Read our blog to learn more about the dangers of sleep apnea. Ultimately, it can take your life, so the biggest benefit of a CPAP machine is its treatment of sleep apnea.

Improved Length and Quality of Life

CPAP machines are used to treat sleep apnea. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to diabetes, strokes, heart disease and a shortened life span. However, you don’t have to live with sleep apnea. Using a CPAP can help you avoid these diseases and live a longer and healthier life.

Experience Better Sleep and Feel Rested

When you are suffering from sleep apnea, your body wakes you up just enough to allow your breathing to resume to normal. This means sleep apnea leads to poor sleep quality and feeling tired during the day. However, when you use a CPAP machine, your body is able to fall into deep sleep and give you the rest you need.

The Cons of CPAP Machines

Some Say the Device is Uncomfortable

The biggest ‘con’ we hear about CPAP machines is the discomfort while wearing one. The sensation of a mask on your face and straps around your head is certainly not something we are used to. Some people report feeling claustrophobic or when they have the mask on.

The Machine is Loud

The CPAP machine is just that – a machine. Many people find it difficult to sleep with a CPAP (or next to someone using a CPAP) because the noise is too loud.

Some People Wake Up with Dry Mouth

The CPAP blows dry air into your mouth all night long. Because of that, people report having extreme dry mouth. This can be remedied by attaching a heated humidifier to a CPAP machine.

Bloating and Gas May Occur

Sometimes when a user is wearing a CPAP machine, they will swallow air in the middle of the night. This can lead to uncomfortable bloating and gas. Fortunately, this can be addressed by adjusting pressure settings on the CPAP machines.

Other Treatment Options

If the cons outweigh the pros for using a CPAP machine, there is good news! You can treat sleep apnea other ways. One of the most common treatment options is a Mandibular Adjustment Device (MAD) otherwise known as an oral device. They are discrete, quiet, and don’t cause bloating or gas.

Want to learn more about getting an oral device to treat sleep apnea? Contact us today to learn more.