Myths and realities about sleep apnea
Sleep apnea remains an underdiagnosed and largely unknown health condition. That's why we've made it our mission at La Boite à CPAP: to ensure that patients suffering from sleep apnea are diagnosed and treated quickly. That's why we offer personalized and regular service to patients undergoing treatment, with the goal of providing them with a better quality of life.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea, also known as sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome, is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing (apneas) and/or drops in airflow (hypopneas) lasting at least 10 seconds, resulting in decreased blood oxygen saturation. Apneas can be caused by an obstruction of the upper airways and/or a disruption of the automatic breathing pattern.
According to the Quebec Lung Association , More than 1 in 4 adults are at high risk of suffering from it, but most of them do not know they have it and are therefore not treated.
Now that this is clear, let's explore together some persistent myths about sleep apnea.
Myths and realities about sleep apnea
" The only symptom of sleep apnea is severe snoring." »
This is not the case. The list of possible symptoms for someone suffering from untreated sleep apnea is quite long. Persistent fatigue, snoring (severe or not), depression, anxiety, frequent awakenings during the night, a feeling of unrefreshing sleep, difficulty concentrating, irritability, night sweats, and headaches upon waking are just a few examples. It goes without saying that untreated sleep apnea can have a considerable negative impact on quality of life.
" Only overweight people suffer from sleep apnea." »
Although obesity ( BMI > 30) is a risk factor for sleep apnea, people of any size and weight can be affected.
" Only men suffer from sleep apnea." »
That's obviously false; women can suffer from it too. That said, it's mostly men aged 40 and over who are affected.
" We have to spend the night in the hospital to diagnose sleep apnea." »
No, not at all! The most commonly used test to diagnose OSA is called cardiorespiratory polygraphy. It is An examination that can be performed at home! During the examination, respiratory rate, respiratory movements, blood oxygen saturation, and pulse are recorded during sleep. This examination diagnoses 90% of sleep apnea cases .
Note that you must have a referral from your doctor before you can undergo cardiorespiratory polygraphy.
" Sleep apnea is not a serious health condition, I don't need to treat it." »
Although it may not be life-threatening, sleep apnea is a serious health problem. Its significant impact on various aspects of your life should convince you to seek effective treatment. Furthermore, untreated sleep apnea can lead to the development of certain diseases such as type 2 diabetes (30%), heart problems (30%), and depressive symptoms (50%). It can also result in job loss or a car accident.
" Once I have my device, I no longer need to consult." »
Once again, you're mistaken! Annual follow-up is essential for the effectiveness of CPAP treatments. That's why the professionals at La Boite à CPAP will conduct regular follow-ups with you. Each year, you will meet with your respiratory therapist to have your CPAP machine, tubing, mask, and humidity chamber checked. It is important to ensure that the equipment is in good working order and that your treatment is optimal.
" The only benefit of sleep apnea treatment is the cessation of snoring." »
Nothing could be further from the truth! The benefits of the treatment are numerous and can change the lives of affected patients:
- Increased libido
- Better concentration
- Reduction of depressive symptoms
- Increased energy level
- Better performance at work
- Improved quality of married and family life
- Reduced risk of associated pathologies
- Reduction in palpitations
- Weight loss and increased exercise
Our expertise: sleep apnea
At La Boite à CPAP, this has been our expertise for many years. With four clinics now located in Montreal, Dorval, Pierreville, and Nicolet, we are here to serve you and we make house calls. Our respiratory therapists are available 24/7 to answer your questions.
If you have any doubts about the quality of your sleep, don't hesitate and contact us The first consultation is free.