When someone has sleep apnea, over the course of the night they may experience 60 apneas, or brief cessations of breath, every hour. There are as many as 18 million people in the United States that experience sleep apnea. While this condition does occur with men, it is twice as common in women. It has been estimated that between two and four percent of all Americans have sleep apnea but haven’t been diagnosed with this condition yet.

Health Risks Associated With Untreated Sleep Apnea

When people have an undiagnosed and untreated case of sleep apnea, they potentially face a number of health risks. Individuals with untreated sleep apnea are four times as likely to have a stroke than someone without this condition. In addition to being more likely to experience a stroke, untreated sleep apnea sufferers are also three times more likely to have some form of heart disease.

Every year, there are roughly 38,000 deaths that occur which are associated with cardiovascular issues, according to the National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research. Furthermore, these deaths are also connected in some way with individuals that experience sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Once someone has been diagnosed with sleep apnea, then treatment can begin. One of the most recommended devices to address sleep apnea is a continuous positive airway pressure machine, or CPAP machine. When used properly and regularly, these machines provide a steady stream of air to assist people with breathing throughout the night.

Recent data shows, however, that 80% of the individuals that have received a prescription for this devise aren’t using it enough to protect them. Furthermore, studies also show that about half of the people that have had this device prescribed stop using it in one to three weeks. In order to experience the positive results, and to also continue to receive insurance coverage, these devices need to be used in a specific fashion. Over a 30-day time period, for example, someone with sleep apnea should use their machine a minimum of 70% of the time. This means a minimum of four hours per night.

CPAP Machine Supplies

Since there is a wide selection of CPAP masks available, it’s important to consider which type would be the most comfortable. When the mask fits comfortably, then people may use their machine as directed. In addition to full face CPAP masks, there are also masks for both mouth and nose breathers. Someone may also want to consider whether they will be more comfortable with heated humidification for CPAP machines. Individuals over 60 are five times more likely to need or prefer this feature.

It’s possible that once this machine has been prescribed, many people may not purchase one due to the costs they believe are associated with maintaining this device. It’s important to note, however, that there are discount CPAP machines and discount CPAP supplies available. Since using a CPAP machine as directed by a physician is so important, having access to discount CPAP supplies can make a difference in whether or not they will purchase and continue using this life-saving device. In addition to discount CPAP supplies, there are also discounted parts available.