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Common myths about obstructive sleep apnoea explained

 

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Teofilo Lee-Chiong MD

Learn the facts from Teofilo Lee‑Chiong, MD
Chief Medical Liaison, Philips Home Healthcare Solutions

How dangerous is OSA?

Myth

Snoring is simply a nuisance and does not have any medical consequences.

 

Fact

Snoring is a risk factor for obstructive sleep apnoea, which can have both
short-term and long-term health consequences if left untreated.

High blood pressure

High blood pressure

Heart disease

Heart disease

Heart attack

Heart attack

Stroke

Stroke

Accident

Accident

Who is really at risk?

Myth

Adults who have had a tonsillectomy during childhood do not develop obstructive sleep apnoea.

 

Fact

Even if you have had a tonsillectomy, you can still develop obstructive sleep apnoea as an adult.

Myth

I never sleep on my back and, therefore, I am unlikely to have obstructive sleep apnoea.

 

Fact

Sleep apnoea can develop regardless of your sleeping positions.

Myth

Only obese, middle-aged men develop obstructive sleep apnoea.

 

Fact

Sleep apnoea affects men, women, and children of all body weights and ages.

1 out of 5
adults in Australia have at least mild obstructive sleep apnoea*

1 out of 5

*Medical Services Advisory Committee, Public Summary Document, Application No. 1130 – Unattended Sleep Studies in the Diagnosis and Reassessment of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea March 2010.

How do I get diagnosed?

Myth

A simple nighttime measurement of oxygen in the blood system is sufficient to diagnose obstructive sleep apnoea.

 

Fact

Diagnosing sleep apnoea also requires measurements of breathing and potentially brain activity, limb and muscle movement, and sound.

Myth

Going to a sleep lab is the only way to be diagnosed for sleep apnoea.

 

Fact

Portable sleep-testing technology may allow for in-home diagnosis.

Myth

I don’t think I will be comfortable sleeping in a sleep lab.

 

Fact

Though many people have this fear, most are able to fall asleep in the sleep lab.

How do I get diagnosed?

Understanding CPAP masks

Myth

A full face CPAP mask is always preferred over a nasal mask.

 

Fact

Not necessarily. Full-face masks are associated with more mask leaks, higher device pressure requirements, and lower treatment compliance. Many people do well with a nasal mask if they do not breathe through their mouth. If they do, a nasal mask with a chin strap is an alternative solution.

Myth

Wearing a CPAP mask makes me look unattractive.

 

Fact

A recent study has shown that CPAP users look more attractive than those who are untreated. A good night’s sleep in the same room as your partner may be worth the mask.

Myth

One mask fits all.

 

Fact

Everyone’s face is unique. It’s important to find the mask that fits and works for you.

Understanding CPAP masks

Understanding CPAP devices

Myth

Most people who have been prescribed CPAP devices do not use them.

 

Fact

Advances in masks, devices, and motivational aids can help those who struggle with therapy to become regular CPAP users.

Myth

It is hard to sleep with a CPAP machine because of the loud noises it makes.

 

Fact

New technological advancements now allow for much quieter CPAP machines.

Myth

All CPAP devices are alike.

 

Fact

CPAP devices have different features, including fixed or variable pressure, pressure relief technology, and humidification. Find what works best for you.

Understanding CPAP devices

Understanding treatment

Myth

CPAP users will die immediately if a power failure occurs.

 

Fact

Absolutely not! All masks are designed to allow you to breathe room air if your device stops working.

Myth

I am too old to start CPAP therapy.

 

Fact

You’re never too old to start enjoying the benefits of treating your sleep apnoea.

Myth

Oxygen therapy is as effective as CPAP for people with obstructive sleep apnoea.

 

Fact

It’s not. Unlike oxygen therapy, CPAP addresses pauses in breathing. In some cases, oxygen therapy may be prescribed in combination with CPAP.

Myth

Drinking alcohol at bedtime helps me sleep better.

 

Fact

Alcohol might help you fall asleep quicker, but it reduces rapid eye movement (REM), an important stage of your sleep. It can also worsen sleep apnoea symptoms.

Myth

Losing weight alone will treat my obstructive sleep apnoea.

 

Fact

It may help, but since obesity is not the only cause of sleep apnoea, you may require CPAP therapy regardless of your weight.

Get back your energy and your lust for life.
Take a quiz to find out if you have sleep apnoea.

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