Are you constantly tired despite getting what seems like a full night’s sleep? Do you snore loudly or wake up gasping for air? You might be one of the millions of Americans living with sleep apnea, a condition we help treat every day.
What is Sleep Apnea and Why Should You Care?
Sleep apnea is more than just snoring – it’s a potentially serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, these interruptions can happen hundreds of times each night, often without you even realizing it.
When you have sleep apnea, your body isn’t getting the oxygen it needs during sleep, which can lead to daytime fatigue and affect your overall health and quality of life.
At Buckeye, we’ve helped countless neighbors in Cookeville, Crossville, Fairfield Glade, and throughout middle Tennessee and south central Kentucky find relief from sleep apnea with effective treatments including CPAP, BiPAP, and other respiratory therapy solutions.
Common Sleep Apnea Symptoms to Watch For
Are you experiencing any of these warning signs? They could indicate you’re dealing with sleep apnea:
- Loud, chronic snoring that disrupts your partner’s sleep
- Episodes where you stop breathing during sleep (reported by someone else)
- Gasping or choking sensations that wake you up
- Morning headaches or dry mouth
- Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
- Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
- Difficulty concentrating during the day
- Irritability or mood changes
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute notes that many people with sleep apnea don’t realize they have it until a bed partner or family member notices the symptoms. If these symptoms sound familiar, it might be time to talk to a healthcare provider about sleep apnea testing. Schedule your free consultation at a location near you to learn more about next steps.
Different Types of Sleep Apnea
Not all sleep apnea is the same. Understanding the type you have helps determine the best treatment approach:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, occurring when throat muscles relax and block your airway during sleep. This is what most people think of when they hear “sleep apnea.”
Central Sleep Apnea: Less common but more complex, happening when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Also called treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this occurs when someone has both obstructive and central sleep apnea.
According to the Mayo Clinic, certain factors like excess weight, age, family history, and nasal congestion can increase your risk for sleep apnea. Residents across our service area who suspect they might have sleep apnea can contact our respiratory specialists for guidance on diagnostic options.
Getting Diagnosed: Sleep Studies and What to Expect
Diagnosing sleep apnea typically involves a sleep study, either at a sleep center or with home sleep testing equipment. These tests monitor your:
- Breathing patterns
- Blood oxygen levels
- Heart rate
- Brain activity
- Sleep stages
For our neighbors in Tennessee and south central Kentucky, we can help coordinate with your doctor to arrange appropriate testing. Call our team today to discuss your concerns about sleep apnea and testing options.
Sleep Apnea and PAP Therapy
Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy is the gold standard treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea. This non-invasive therapy works by delivering a steady stream of pressurized air through a mask you wear while sleeping, keeping your airway open and preventing the pauses in breathing that characterize sleep apnea.
PAP therapy for sleep apnea comes in several forms:
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): Delivers constant air pressure throughout the night. This is the most common and well-known type of sleep apnea treatment.
BiPAP (Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure): Provides two pressure levels – higher pressure when you inhale and lower when you exhale. This can be more comfortable for some patients who struggle with CPAP.
APAP (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure): Automatically adjusts pressure levels throughout the night based on your breathing patterns.
Our respiratory therapy experts across our service area can help determine which PAP device might work best for your specific needs. Browse our sleep therapy equipment selection online to see what options are available.
Beyond the Machine: Finding the Right Mask and Fit
The success of PAP therapy for obstructive sleep apnea often depends on finding the right mask. There are several styles available:
- Full face masks (covering nose and mouth)
- Nasal masks (covering just the nose)
- Nasal pillow masks (inserting into the nostrils)
- Hybrid masks (combining different features)
At Buckeye, we take the time to properly fit you with a comfortable mask that works with your sleeping position and personal preferences. Patients can schedule a mask fitting appointment at their nearest location.
Adjusting to Sleep Apnea and PAP Therapy
Getting used to sleeping with a PAP device can take time, but the health benefits are worth the adjustment period. Here are some tips for success:
- Use your PAP therapy every time you sleep, even for naps
- Make sure your mask fits properly without air leaks
- Keep your equipment clean according to manufacturer guidelines
- Gradually increase your usage if you’re struggling at first
- Track your progress with sleep diary or app
Our respiratory therapists in Cookeville, Livingston, and throughout our service area provide ongoing support as you adjust to your new sleep therapy. Contact our support team anytime you have questions about your sleep apnea treatment.
Health Benefits of Sleep Apnea and PAP Therapy
Successfully treating sleep apnea with PAP therapy can dramatically improve your quality of life. Our patients report:
- Feeling more rested and alert during the day
- Improved concentration and memory
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular problems
- Better blood pressure control
- Improved mood and reduced irritability
- Less morning headaches
- Decreased snoring (your partner will thank you!)
Alternative and Complementary Treatments
While PAP therapy is highly effective for treating sleep disordered breathing, it’s not the only option. Depending on the severity and type of your sleep apnea, alternatives might include:
- Oral appliances that reposition the jaw and tongue
- Lifestyle changes like weight loss and sleeping position training
- Surgery for certain anatomical issues
- Treating underlying medical conditions
Our team works closely with sleep specialists across Tennessee and south central Kentucky to ensure you have access to comprehensive care. Schedule a consultation at a Buckeye location near you to discuss all your treatment options.
Why Choose Buckeye for Your Sleep Apnea Needs?
With over two decades serving communities throughout Tennessee and Kentucky, Buckeye understands the unique healthcare challenges facing our neighbors. We offer:
- Personalized care from respiratory specialists who know sleep apnea
- Convenient locations in Cookeville, Crossville, Fairfield Glade, Jamestown, Livingston, Huntsville, McMinnville, Lenoir City, Shelbyville, and Albany
- Insurance verification and assistance
- Ongoing support and equipment maintenance
- Regular follow-ups to ensure your therapy remains effective
Find your nearest Buckeye location and take the first step toward better sleep today.
Start Your Journey to Better Sleep Today
If you’re tired of being tired, the team at Buckeye is ready to help. Sleep apnea is highly treatable, and PAP therapy has helped millions of Americans just like you reclaim their energy and improve their health.
Don’t let another night of poor sleep impact your tomorrow. Contact our sleep specialists today to learn more about sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment options available in your community.
This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.