The Long-Term Side Effects of Using a CPAP

You’re not alone if you have concerns about the long-term impact of using a CPAP machine. After all, anything that becomes a regular part of your life warrants scrutiny. Here at Silent Night Therapy, New York’s foremost sleep apnea treatment center, we believe in empowering you with information. And while CPAP machines can help alleviate sleep apnea symptoms, it’s essential to understand the potential side effects and what other treatment options are available. By the time you finish reading, you will better understand these complex machines and have the information to make an informed choice regarding your sleep apnea treatment.

What Are CPAP Machines, and How Do They Work?

It’s essential to know how any medical device works before you use it. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, and these machines are basically small fans that help people with sleep apnea breathe better at night. Imagine a gentle breeze that’s constantly blowing air into your nose or mouth through a comfy mask. This steady flow of air keeps your airways open, allowing you to sleep without those scary pauses in breathing that characterize sleep apnea.

Long-Term CPAP Machine Side Effects

CPAP machines are a game-changer for those struggling with sleep apnea, but like any medical device, they have their quirks. Knowing the potential long-term side effects is key to getting the most out of your treatment. At Silent Night Therapy, we believe in arming you with the complete picture, so let’s dive into some of the concerns:

• Toxic Gasses: Some CPAP machines were made with polyurethane foam that might break down over time, releasing harmful gasses. It’s crucial to regularly maintain and replace your device to avoid this risk.
• Facial Development Issues in Children: When children have sleep apnea and use CPAP machines long-term, the pressure from the headgear and mask can interfere with the natural development of their facial structure.
• Dental Concerns: CPAP machines often cause the tongue to push forward to improve airflow. Over time, this may cause teeth to shift. Also, the chin straps that keep the mouth closed can result in chipped teeth.
• Ineffective Treatment: A faulty CPAP machine is as good as no treatment, potentially exposing you to all the health risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.

Oral Appliances: A Better Sleep Apnea Treatment

Are you tired of wrestling with your CPAP machine? At Silent Night Therapy, we offer an alternative that might revolutionize your nights: custom-fitted oral appliances designed specifically for sleep apnea treatment. Imagine slipping a comfortable, tailor-made device into your mouth before bed instead of strapping on a bulky mask. This simple yet effective solution works by gently repositioning your jaw, which helps to keep your airway open as you sleep.

Why choose an oral appliance over a CPAP machine? For starters, they’re discreet and portable, making it easier to get quality sleep wherever you are. They also bypass many of the long-term side effects associated with CPAP, like facial irritation and ear discomfort. They’re also silent, allowing you and your partner to sleep without the added noise of a CPAP machine.

With Silent Night Therapy, you can explore a more convenient, comfortable, and silent route to conquering sleep apnea. Call 631-983-2463 or complete our contact form

to schedule an appointment.