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Month: June 2022

Essential things you need to know about sleep apnea

Nowadays, people have several cases of sleep disorders. Some did not even know what causes breathing to cease or stop while sleeping. It is abnormal and a severe issue for every individual that snores loudly. Who knows? People that snore loudly at night might be suffering or battling sleep apnea. 

This article will take you through an educative and informative journey about sleep apnea. Not only will you know about the sleep apnea machine. You’ll also learn some essential facts about it. This write-up will also contain the symptoms, causes, and how to prevent sleep apnea. 

Therefore, we urge you to stay focused and carefully read through. It’s going to be lovely to kick start this write-up with the meaning of sleep apnea. 

What is sleep apnea?

Severally, people might be battling with being comfortless in their sleep. And it occurs mainly in aged people. Sleep apnea is a critical sleep disorder in which one’s breathing recurrently stops and starts. It appears in some people in the form of snoring loudly at night. We have heard about people who snore loudly at night, and most do not know they have sleep apnea. 

Medically, when throat muscles relax, sleep apnea occurs. This is often called obstructive sleep apnea. Let’s briefly talk about the types of sleep apnea.

Types of sleep apnea

  1. Obstructive sleep apnea: We have already mentioned the meaning of this type. It occurs when the muscle in the back of one’s throat muscles relax. One will start having a sleep disorder when the throat muscles relax. 
  2. Central sleep apnea: This type of sleep apnea occurs when the brain fails in doing its responsibility of sending signals to the muscles that control breathing. Central sleep apnea is common among both old and young ones. The brain plays a significant role in our sleep. It sends signals to the muscles in charge or controls the brain. So, once the brain cannot send such a signal, then sleep apnea occurs. 
  3. Complex sleep apnea syndrome is known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea. Complex sleep apnea syndrome happens when one has obstructive and central sleep apnea. 
Essential things you need to know about sleep apnea

Having known the meaning of sleep apnea. We know you should be asking yourself some questions right now. More importantly, if you’ve been following, you’ll be curious about sleep apnea symptoms. Of course, it is good to know the signs. Knowing the symptoms will help you see if you have sleep apnea and also know the necessary steps to take. Let us quickly dive into the symptoms of sleep apnea. Please note that you need to see a doctor if you’re seeing the following. 

  1. Loud snoring: These days, people used to look down on snoring. In fact, some people have taken snoring loudly to be natural and uncontrollable. In some parts of the world, snoring loudly is not a problem. For instance, some African countries didn’t open a file of consideration towards snoring. At some point, people say they snore because they’ve been stressed. Of course, there might be an iota of truth in that. But the fact remains that once one notices that one is snoring loudly, one should not overlook it. Therefore, this part is crucial for those that snore loudly during their sleep. They might have sleep apnea. 
  2. Gasping for air during sleep: Several people are experiencing this and assume they need to use some drugs. The best thing to do is consult the doctor if you’re experiencing gasping for air during sleep. Gasping for air during sleep is one of the symptoms of sleep apnea. However, the fact remains that if you notice this, please consult your doctor. Remember, this write-up is all about the essential things you need to know about sleep apnea. 
  3. Awakening with a dry mouth: This symptom is also common. Dear reader, if your mouth is always dry whenever you’re awake from sleep, you might have sleep apnea. And this is the right time to rise and do the needful. Waking up with a dry mouth is one of the undeniable symptoms of sleep apnea common among adults. 
Essential things you need to know about sleep apnea
  1. Morning headache: If you used to feel a slight headache in the morning, you might have sleep apnea. We are not saying you have sleep apnea whenever you feel a headache. Please don’t misquote us. We are only saying that if you used to feel a headache in the morning and it persists frequently, you might have sleep apnea. So, before judging or evaluating that you’re battling sleep apnea, if you have a morning headache, watch it for days. If you’ve been feeling headaches in the morning for at least three days, there should be a cause for alarm. 
  2. Difficulty paying attention while awake: Some people used to find it so hard to pay attention while awake. If you wake them from their sleep, they need some time before coming and gaining consciousness. Have you seen some people like that? They need to see a doctor. Therefore, no one should push you to do the needful if you’ve seen these symptoms. 

When should I see a doctor?

It is most likely that this question pops up while reading this article. Therefore, it is expedient for us to talk about it. One may assume that one does not need to see a doctor because one doesn’t snore. May I tell you that not everyone battling sleep apnea snores? Therefore, you need to see a doctor if you notice the above-explained symptoms. Don’t wait till you start snoring. You might have sleep apnea if you always have a slight headache in the morning. Also, you can ask your doctor about any sleep problem that leaves you tired and irritable.  

On a final note

We believe you’ve seen something educative here. You can help others by sharing the link to this page with them. This information should be for everyone. In this write-up, we explained in detail the meaning, types, causes, and symptoms of sleep apnea. Finally, question(s) might pop up while reading this article. Please kindly drop your question in the comment box.    

Essential things you need to know about cpap machines for sleep apnea

The CPAP is a sleep apnea machine that helps control and pushes out any unwanted piece blocking the easy flow of air in the airways. So, in this article, we will explain in detail the essential things you need to know about the cpap machine for sleep apnea. However, your hundred percent attention is required. Hence, before we dive into facts about cpap machines, it would be nice to kick start with the meaning of sleep apnea.  

What is sleep apnea?

SA is a dangerous sleep disorder in which breathing is affected. With sleep apnea, the breathing breaks and flinches repeatedly. On the other hand, one is considered to use cpap machine if one snores noisily during sleep. We can’t describe sleep apnea (SA) without seeing its types. Seemingly, there are three categories of SA. They are; obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and complex sleep apnea syndrome. Also check out: Is LASIK long-lasting

Essential things you need to know about cpap machines for sleep apnea

The obstructive SA happens when the throat muscles relax. It occurs when the muscles in the back of one’s throat relax disproportionately to allow normal breathing. Also, central sleep apnea occurs when one’s brain doesn’t send the appropriate signal to the muscles that control breathing. And once the powers holding breathing fail to receive the proper signal from the brain, central sleep apnea will occur. 

Hence, what is complex sleep apnea syndrome? Complex sleep apnea syndrome is also known as treatment-emergent central SA. It occurs when one has both obstructive SA and central SA. In other words, it is the combination of the first-mentioned two types of SA.  

However, there are common symptoms of this sleep disorder. It could be morning headache, loud snoring, irritability, insomnia, hypersomnia, and difficulty staying asleep. You might be wondering if loud snoring is among the symptoms of sleep apnea. Some people assume that snoring is a natural case that cannot be controlled. That’s not true. When one snores loudly, something is wrong. Of course, such a person might be suffering or battling sleep apnea.

Essential things you need to know about cpap machines for sleep apnea

What is a CPAP machine?

CPAP means continuous positive airway pressure. It is a machine commonly prescribed for treating sleep apnea disorders. CPAP is specifically designed to treat and regulate airflow in the airways. Remember, we mentioned obstructive sleep apnea as the most common type/cause of sleep apnea. So, OSA causes interruptions in one’s breathing because one’s throat is temporarily blocked. Hence, a CPAP machine helps to send a steady flow of air into one’s nose and mouth while asleep. This incredible machine is a medical tool that normalizes the flow of pressurized air into one’s nose and mouth. It helps to keep one’s airways open; then, one can breathe normally. 

How does the CPAP machine work?

A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine’s compressor (motor) produces a continuous stream of hassled air that journeys through an air filter into a flexible tube. This tube transports purified air into a mask wrapped around your nose or mouth. So, as you sleep, the airstream from the continuous positive airway pressure machine impulses against any obstructions. Also, it opens your airways, so your lungs receive abundant oxygen.

Without anything hindering this stream of oxygen, your breathing doesn’t break in proceedings. So, you don’t recurrently wake up to recommence breathing. 

Basic components of CPAP 

Continuous positive airway pressure machines have the same essential components. In any CPAP machine, you’ll see the same essential elements. All continuous positive airway pressure machines have a mouth housed in a base unit, a cushioned mask, and a tube that connects the motor to the mask. Not only that, but all CPAP machines also come with a headgear frame, elbow pieces that act as joints, and adjustable straps. That adjustable strap allows one to customize the fit of the device.

Essential things you need to know about cpap machines for sleep apnea

Types of CPAP masks

There are different types of continuous positive airway pressure machine masks. Firstly, let us talk about the work of the mask in CPAP. Of course, mask styles vary with several continuous positive airway pressure machines. So, the mask you put on depends on your breathing habits. Also, the type of SA you have will determine the mask you’ll put on. However, below are the types of CPAP masks;

  1. Nasal pillow mask: This mask has a small cushion that caps over the nostril area. A nasal pillow mask has prongs that fit into one’s nostrils. This CPAP mask allows one to wear one’s glasses quickly. This unique CPAP mask performs well if one has lots of facial hair. 
  2. Nasal mask: This mask is a cushioned mask that covers one’s whole nose area. It is a better option for those that are not always stable, that is, maintaining a position while sleeping. So, a nasal mask is the best option for people that can’t do without moving around while sleeping. Also, a nasal mask is the best type of CPAP mask that can deliver a high-pressure airstream. 
  3. Full mask: This CPAP mask is triangular. It covers one’s mouth and nose. Doctors used to prescribe this CPAP mask for people who breathe through their mouths while sleeping. On the other hand, CPAP full mask can be recommended for people with a blockage in their nose. A full mask is a most-used mask over the years. For the past ten years, many people have found it hard to breathe normally. So, doctors prescribed full mask CPAP to them.

Now, the difference between CPAP and APAP

You’ll be curious to know the difference between automatic positive airflow pressure and continuous positive airflow pressure. CPAP is designed or programmed to produce pressurized air at one steady air pressure level while automatic positive airflow pressure checks one’s breathing throughout the night. The APAP adjusts the air pressure to compensate for the change in one’s sleep position. 

Closing thought

Dear reader, we hope you’ve seen something informative here. This article contains the meaning of SA and every other essential fact you need to know about CPAP. Finally, you can have a question(s). Please feel free to ask. We will surely respond to all questions regarding this topic.     

Is LASIK long-lasting

Is LASIK eye surgery a long-term procedure? The fact is, according to our LASIK MD professionals in eye surgery.

The goal of LASIK surgery is to reshape the cornea, thus the name “laser eye surgery.” Permanently. This means that many of our patients will no longer need to wear glasses or contact lenses in the near future after receiving this life-changing procedure.

Here are some of the reasons why LASIK eye surgery is a good option for you.

Refractive surgery (surgical procedures that fix common visual abnormalities) has caught the interest of millions of people all over the globe, in contrast to more traditional means of vision correction such as glasses or contact lenses. When laser vision correction became widely accessible, many people were surprised to learn that they could get rid of their glasses with the use of a laser. Despite the fact that the novelty has worn off, the product’s appeal has increased rather than decreased in recent years.

Is LASIK long-lasting

In its report, the American Refractive Surgery Council (ARSC) named LASIK operation as the “most common vision correction surgery.” It’s easy to see why: LASIK eye surgery has been the subject of several studies, all of which have concluded that it is safe. The majority of individuals are optimistic about the operation’s safety. Because of surgeons’ knowledge and advancements in medical technology, vision correction surgeries have only become better over time. Furthermore, the technology has come a long way since it was first made accessible to the general public.

Patient satisfaction has also surpassed all previous records: Between 2008 and 2015, the ARSC examined over 4,400 clinical studies, and the data were utilized to assess how patients felt about their choice to undergo laser eye surgery. Overall, the data show that the great majority of patients are quite pleased with the outcomes of their surgery: over 98 percent of patients are entirely content with the procedure’s conclusion.

Consider contact lens wearer satisfaction, which has dropped dramatically in recent years, according to a three-year study conducted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (FDA). Contact lens wearers are 500 times more vulnerable to infection than individuals who have undergone LASIK surgery, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Is LASIK long-lasting

Despite the fact that LASIK eye surgery has several benefits, some individuals are nevertheless apprehensive to undergo the treatment. The common notion that laser vision rehabilitation surgeries are not long-lasting is one of the most important hurdles. According to common belief, following LASIK eye surgery, you may have clear vision for a year or two, but your eyesight will eventually decrease and revert to what it was before the treatment.

This, however, is not the case. In the long term, this is a wise investment that will provide you with clear vision for many years. The majority of patients who have undergone LASIK surgery are pleased to report that their great vision has not deteriorated in the years after the procedure was completed.

An explanation of a common LASIK blunder

In today’s world, the LASIK technique is solely intended to do one thing: permanently restructure the cornea. However, there’s always the possibility that your eyesight may be distorted. The method LASIK is most often used to treat severe instances of myopia, and this is the most common form of complication reported by people who have had it done.

According to a long-term, peer-reviewed study, only 6% of patients who got eye surgery LASIK for myopia stronger than -10.0 D (severe blurriness when seeing from long distances) after 10 years decided for an eye surgery LASIK augmentation because their vision had worsened.

Many previous LASIK eye surgery patients claim that the change is so subtle that it is hardly perceptible for the most of the time. In other circumstances, people are forced to wear their glasses for specified activities (most notably driving at night), but they may still benefit from the long-term results of their surgery.

If, on the other hand, the regression is more pronounced, patients may choose to have enhancement surgery—ostensibly a “touch-up” procedure—to restore their vision to its pre-regression condition. Depending on the operation package chosen, the cost of this augmentation therapy may be included in the initial price of the procedure package. In the unlikely event that you need one, our LASIK specialists can devise a strategy to help you enhance your vision.

Is LASIK long-lasting

Is having LASIK eye surgery now a guarantee that I won’t be able to correct my reading vision loss later on?

Although LASIK eye surgery may permanently correct your current vision problem, it cannot prevent age-related vision problems like presbyopia or cataracts from occurring in the future (more on those below).

Have you ever tried to read anything and experienced cloudy vision? Do you find yourself needing to increase the brightness of your lights when you previously didn’t have to? Presbyopia is a condition that happens when the lens of the eye hardens and loses its flexibility as we age.

When the lens reaches this point, focusing on objects in close proximity to the camera becomes challenging. Presbyopia leads to the formation of cataracts, which are masses of protein that collect on the lens of the eye, causing vision to become cloudy and dull in color if left untreated. There are surgeries that can be done for each of these illnesses. Even if you have previously had laser vision correction (LASIK eye surgery), you will be eligible to have presbyopia treatment in the future if you fulfill the other prerequisites.

Is LASIK eye surgery the right technique for me?

Do you want to find out whether LASIK eye surgery is the right operation for you? The next step is to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for laser vision correction surgery. You should schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our representatives to do so.

The goal of LASIK surgery is to reshape the cornea, thus the name “laser eye surgery.” Permanently. This means that many of our patients will no longer need to wear glasses or contact lenses in the near future after receiving this life-changing procedure.

How does LASIK laser eye surgery work

The procedure of changing the shape of the front of your eye in order to enhance your vision is known as “laser eye surgery.” Although laser eye surgery is supposed to be a “permanent” therapy, your eyes change as you grow older, and someone who has laser eye surgery in their twenties or thirties may still need reading glasses or another surgery later in life. Any surgical operation includes a small risk of side effects, so get medical advice before deciding if laser surgery is the best choice for you.

What are the many types of laser eye surgery?

Laser eye surgery to improve your eyesight has improved at a remarkable rate during the past fifty years. Doctors used the first procedure of best laser eye surgery, called as radial keratotomy, to modify the form of the eyeball by making radial incisions on the front surface of the eye. While this improved vision, it had the unwanted side effect of producing glare. Researchers found a new kind of laser in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s that could be used to shave a very thin layer away from the front surface of the eye, modifying the way light entered the eye and allowing for a more concentrated picture.

How does LASIK work

Photorefractive Keratectomy is the name given to this technique (PRK). Individuals complained pain after the surgery because the front surface cells of the eye were damaged during the procedure. Another technique, LASIK (Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), or “flap & zap,” was developed, which involved cutting a thin flap from the front surface of an eye that could be replaced after laser eye surgery, reducing pain and discomfort while also improving vision immediately after the procedure.

What is LASIK and how does it work?

The first successful laser eye surgery treatment to be done on humans was photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). LASIK, on the other hand, is gaining popularity because it produces better outcomes faster and with less discomfort than other treatments. However, the outcomes are similar, and it’s thought that nerve regeneration on the surface of the eye occurs faster with PRK than with LASIK, minimizing the risk of complications during recuperation. PRK may be a better alternative for you if your cornea is too thin for LASIK surgery.

While every laser eye surgery aims to provide a “permanent” solution, your eyes change as you get older, and someone who gets laser eye surgery in their twenties or thirties may need reading glasses or more surgery in the future. Any surgical operation includes a small risk of side effects, so get medical advice before deciding if laser eye surgery is the best choice for you.

How does LASIK work

What is the technique for improving eyesight using intraocular lenses?

In order to improve one’s vision, artificial lenses may now be surgically placed into the eye. In rare situations, a lens may be implanted in front of the iris, leaving your natural lens behind the iris. A separate strategy that may be employed is the removal of your natural lens and replacement with an artificial lens of a different form. According to the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, this surgery is preferred than LASIK for treating larger refractive abnormalities and those over the age of 50. Consult your consultant to determine which treatment is best for you.

While this operation is meant to be a “permanent” treatment, your eyes change as you get older, and you may need reading glasses or further surgery in the future. Adding an artificial lens to the front of the eye has more dangers than laser eye surgery, so talk to your doctor before determining whether laser eye surgery is the best choice for you. Any surgery has the danger of side effects and putting an artificial lens to the front of the eye entails a larger risk than laser eye surgery.

Is laser eye surgery an unpleasant experience?

To reduce any pain you may have during the treatment, ocular drops will be utilized to deliver local anaesthetic. Because the surgeon is cutting the corneal flap, it is possible to feel pressure during LASIK surgery. You may also experience mild discomfort or irritation for up to 24 hours after laser eye surgery. You may have pain for a week or more following PRK because the surface of the cornea rebounds. You will be given eye drops to use throughout this period to help relieve the pain.

How does LASIK work

In terms of improving my prescription, what are the advantages of laser eye surgery?

Light entering your eye must go to a certain point on the retina, which is situated at the back of the eye, in order for you to see clearly. Both the cornea, which is the transparent front surface of the eye, and the crystalline lens, which is within the eye, bend (refract) light. People with long or short vision may observe that the light does not arrive to a correct spot. The curvature of the cornea is adjusted during laser eye surgery, which changes the way light bends to ensure that it reaches a focus at the correct area.

Will laser eye surgery be a suitable choice for me since I have astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a disorder in which the eye is more like a rugby ball than completely round, and it affects almost everyone. Although there are certain benefits to correcting astigmatism with LASIK, there are also limitations since lasers may now be engineered to reshape the cornea. Greater degrees of astigmatism may only achieve partial correction or necessitate further surgery. Astigmatism of less than 3.00 dioptres (D) can be treated completely with a single LASIK treatment, whereas greater degrees of astigmatism may only achieve partial correction or necessitate further surgery. Furthermore, astigmatism might increase the cost of LASIK procedure. Even if you have laser eye surgery in your twenties or thirties to attain a “permanent” cure, you may still need reading glasses or further surgery later in life since your eyes change with age. Any surgical operation includes a small risk of side effects, so get medical advice before deciding if laser eye surgery is the best choice for you.

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