There is cause for concern, as millions of sleep apnea patients in the U.S. find themselves scrambling. This is all thanks to a voluntary recall of continuous positive airway pressure machines (CPAP), coming from one of America’s leading manufacturers of the treatment.
This past June, Philips Respironics agreed to a voluntary recall of their CPAPs. It was due to worry around the noise-reducing foam inside their machines. The concern is that this area could degrade, producing toxic gases and particles.
The Repercussions Of This Recall
According to a news report, this leaves sleep apnea patients with a difficult decision. Either go without treatment or spend $1,000 for a new CPAP. It’s important to note, treatment is vital for sufferers of this condition for many reasons. Firstly, it helps them get a good night’s sleep and adequate rest. In addition, when the condition is left untreated it can lead to a variety of health issues. Some complications include:
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Type II diabetes
- Sexual dysfunction
- Obesity
- Cardiovascular disease
- Heart failure
- Depression
- GERD
- Injury/death from accidents caused by sleepiness
- Hypertension
The company states that it might take up to a year to replace or repair all these recalled CPAPs. However, experts agree that most sleep apnea patients can’t wait that long.
With that said, Philip’s most recent statement reveals it is producing replacement devices and repair kits as fast as possible. The company is producing 55,000 of these weekly. They hope to reach 80,000 per week in the months ahead. Still, approximately three to four million patients worldwide are dealing with this. Half of that number reflects those in the U.S.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
As per the American Sleep Association, up to 25 million adults across America suffer from this condition. Close to 80% of cases are moderate to severe. Something interesting to note, about 80% of those struggling with the condition don’t know they have it.
Sleep apnea occurs when the back muscles in your throat relax. This blocks your airway, which stops you from breaking while you are asleep. Therefore, you wake up multiple times throughout the night. In addition, this affects your sleep and energy throughout the day. Some symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Loud snoring
- Morning headaches
- A dry mouth or sore throat when you wake up
- Difficulty concentration
- Gasping at night
- Nighttime sweat
- Coughing or choking when you wake up
- Change in moods throughout the day
- High blood pressure
- Decrease in libido
The condition has two different types. One being obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It is the most common type of sleep apnea, where your airways collapse. Therefore, your air supply decreases at night. Meanwhile, the other type is “central”. This happens when the brain stops sending messages to the body to breathe. Some sleep apnea patients can have both types.
There Are Other Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Firstly, CPAP machines are a long-time treatment for sleep apnea. They help patients by pushing through steady airflow into the mouth and nose while sleeping. A patient will place a cumbersome mask over their face. There are also different hoses attached. While the device is effective, many find it difficult to use. It can be hard to fall asleep and stay asleep.
The good news is, there are other treatment options for this condition. Did you know your Miami Beach dentist can help? Many dental offices organize oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea patients, these days. This involves wearing an appliance that looks like a mouthguard. It is far easier to fall asleep with. As well, it works effectively to push your jaw forward to keep airways moving at night.
Also, it’s more comfortable and convenient than a CPAP machine. Therefore, many sleep apnea patients find success with this alternative. At the end of the day, you want a treatment option that will work for you. Some patients do decide on CPAP, but then stop treatment because of difficulties with the machine. You cannot address your sleep apnea if you are not using your treatment. Oral appliances make the treatment transition much smoother. Not to mention that a majority of dental insurance providers cover oral appliances. Finally, there’s no need to worry about recalls or repairs with your oral appliance.
Looking For A Sleep Apnea Treatment in Miami Beach, As An Alternative To CPAP?
Looking for an alternative to a CPAP machine? Think about oral appliance therapy! They provide a more comfortable sleep. In addition, they are far easier to replace should something arise! At SoBe Dentist in Miami Beach, we aim to help patients suffering from sleep apnea. Not only can we help diagnose the condition, but we also can provide an effective treatment. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Mantovani or Dr. Escoto, please call (305) 535-2225. You can also book an appointment online.
