CPAP (positive airway pressure) therapy is a life-changing treatment for people suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Initially, this treatment can feel like an important challenge, but what happens afterwards may surprise you. Your body may experience some physical and mental changes. Read our blog to explore the positive changes you may experience with this treatment.
Symptoms of sleep apnea before CPAP therapy
Before CPAP treatment, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition in which breathing repeatedly pauses or slows down during sleep, which can affect sleep and overall health. Leaving it untreated can lead to the following symptoms:
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Symptoms during sleep:
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Daytime symptoms:
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CPAP therapy is given to help prevent all these problems by causing positive changes in the body.
The top 10 bodies change after CPAP therapy
What do you expect after starting CPAP? These are the effects on the body on post-CPAP therapy.
1. The quality of sleep has been improved
- By clearing the airways, CPAP treatment ensures optimal oxygen levels and prevents breathing challenges.
- This allows for a more uninterrupted, peaceful sleep cycle and reduces the number of sleep apnea events.
2. Increased energy levels
- the study CPAP therapy reveals that it helps reduce local and systemic inflammation associated with increased fatigue or weakness.
- Maintaining clear airways and oxygen levels prevents the release of stress hormones that contribute to fatigue.
3. Better cardiovascular health
- You may notice that your blood pressure has dropped within a few weeks of normal use. This is a common problem in patients with OSA who have fluctuating blood pressure due to sympathetic nervous system activation and intermittent hypoxia (hypoxia levels).
- It also helps to reduce your heart rate during sleep and resting by maintaining oxygen levels. It is beneficial because an increase in heart rate leads to cardiovascular problems.
4. Hypotension
- OSA leads to hypoxia levels and frequent awakening, which can cause tension in the blood vessels and heart, which can contribute to hypertension.
- CPAP therapy here can manage these issues by maintaining the outside air and ensuring improved blood oxygen levels.
5. Changes in weight
- the study OSA treatment using CPAP therapy has reported that it can significantly increase body weight.
- This occurs due to a low metabolic rate, resulting in fewer calories. Hyperglycemia levels can also be a reason for more insulin resistance and changes in appetite-regulating hormones.
6. Improve your mental health
- By improving sleep quality, CPAP therapy leads to more restful sleep, regulates cortisol levels, and reduces anxiety and stress (a common risk factor for OSA).
- Additionally, this treatment promotes oxygen flow and brain function, improves memory and concentration, reduces anxiety symptoms, and stabilizes mood.
7. Less headaches
- CPAP therapy manages hypoxia and high carbon levels in the blood. This is a factor that causes blood vessels to dilate and causes morning headaches.
- This treatment also uses a mask that always supplies air pressure to help open up the upper airways during sleep, providing adequate oxygen and air to the brain, preventing headaches.
8. Improve diabetes symptoms
- CPAP therapy can improve insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients and can use insulin better to lower blood sugar levels.
9. Improvement of sexual health in men
- CPAP therapy improves oxygen levels that promote blood in all parts of the body, including the penis, and reduces the risk of erectile dysfunction.
- It also manages systemic health issues related to OSA, such as diabetes, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. This is a risk factor for erectile dysfunction.
10. Safer and healthier pregnancy
- By keeping the airways open, CPAP therapy ensures a sufficient supply of oxygen and helps in healthy development in a growing baby.
- It can also reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and pre-lamp syndrome by improving oxygen supply and sleep quality.
Why do these bodies change after CPAP therapy occurs?
Here are some reasons why some people experience physical changes with CPAP therapy:
- Deeper sleep = better healing: Uninterrupted sleep helps your body recover and repair more efficiently.
- Balanced hormones: Proper breaks control hormones such as cortisol, testosterone and insulin.
- Stable oxygen levels: During sleep, constant airflow increases oxygen supply and supports the function of all organs.
- Low heart tension: Reducing heart strain can contribute to improving blood circulation and blood pressure levels.
- More daytime energy: Improved sleep quality leads to more energy and helps improve physical activity.
- Increased mental health: Reducing brain fog and improving mood can improve motivation, eating habits and physical well-being.
- Regulated Metabolism: Improved metabolism helps maintain blood volume and improve energy levels.
How long does it take for CPAP to feel better?
It takes time to feel the positive effects of CPAP therapy. This varies from person to person. It takes about a month to adapt to using a CPAP machine and feel the effects. Some people have improved their sleep quality and overall health after a night, while others may take weeks to experience the full benefits.
Possible drawbacks of CPAP therapy
Some side effects may occur during early use or if the machine is not set up properly.
- congestion
- snot
- Dry the mouth
- Dry eye
- nosebleed
- headache
- Claustrophobia (extreme fear of restricted places)
- Aerophagia (overswimming of air)
These problems usually occur due to cold, dry air that can be prevented using a heated humidifier. Also, use the right mask and padding size to reduce headaches, dry eyes and claustrophobia.
Long-term health risks of unprocessed sleep apnea
Without proper treatment, such as CPAP therapy, untreated sleep apnea can cause severe, long-term health problems. These include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Diabetes
- stroke
- cancer
- obesity
- Rapid aging
If you suspect sleep apnea, consult a sleep expert and do not delay treatment.
Alternatives to CPAP therapy
If CPAP therapy does not work, choose an alternative option. Depending on the situation, your doctor may advise you on one of these options to deal with sleep apnea.
- Oral instrument therapy: This includes using custom-made devices to help open the airways by rearranging the lower jaw forward. This prevents soft tissue and tongue from falling down in the airways.
- Position therapy: Use devices or techniques to reduce or prevent sleep in the back, as this position can worsen airway collapse and snoring.
- Weight management: Obesity is one of the important causes of sleep apnea, so maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular activity can help you manage this condition.
- Surgery: Surgical procedures such as soft tissue removal, implantable nerve stimulation devices, or jaw rearrangement can prevent airway blockage and facilitate breathing.
Myths and Facts: CPAP Therapy
Below are some myths and facts about CPAP therapy.
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mythology
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fact
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CPAP therapy is a treatment method.
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No, it’s not a cure, but it only addresses the symptoms of sleep apnea.
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Once symptoms have improved, CPAP therapy can be stopped.
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no. Even if you notice improvements in symptoms, always consult your doctor before discontinuing CPAP treatment.
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CPAP machines cause infection.
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CPAP therapy causes stifling or dry noses, but it is not a sinus infection caused by viruses or bacteria.
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CPAP therapy is the only treatment for sleep apnea.
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Although it is a gold standard treatment, other options such as oral instruments and surgery can be useful.
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CPAP machines are uncomfortable and restrictive.
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For some people, masks can be uncomfortable, embarrassing and claustrophobic. However, there are many different types of masks that can be adjusted to improve comfort.
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CPAP Therapy: Real People, Real Stories
I have experience with people using CPAP therapy.
- “CPAP literally changed my life. I was falling asleep at work, but now I feel like I am once again.. ” – Michael
- “I initially struggled with the air pressure and masks on the CPAP machine and felt embarrassed using it. But after its effective use, I realized the importance of this treatment.” – Jonathan Tracking
- “Snoring hindered my marriage. CPAP gave me peace and better sleep – and helped my relationship.” – Alan Pabon
- “I finally wake up feeling rested. There’s no more fog in my brain or daytime yawning.” – Grace Ayara:
Final Thoughts
After CPAP therapy, your body can be a game changer for you. It can cause major changes, ranging from improving sleep and energy levels to lower blood pressure levels and risk of heart problems. However, it should be consistent with this therapy as it has a positive effect in weeks or months. If you experience any discomfort or concerns while using CPAP, consult your doctor. The provider can help you adjust your pressure or mask settings to improve comfort and results.
FAQ
Why am I still tired after using CPAP?
This could be due to mask fit issues, false pressure settings, and other underlying sleep-related issues that require reevaluation by a doctor.
Does CPAP bulge your face?
Yes – If the mask is too tight or air is leaking, it can cause fluid buildup. Try adjusting the mask type or switching type.
What if I don’t need it using CPAP?
It can interrupt breathing and increase the risk of central sleep apnea. Therefore, always get a proper diagnosis before using a CPAP machine.
Will CPAP make you look younger?
Yes, it can make you look younger by reducing sleep deprivation problems.
