Recently Asked Questions
Do I have to go a Sleep Laboratory to be tested for Sleep Apnea?
The vast majority of patients do not have to go to a strange Sleep Lab to be tested. You can be tested in the privacy and comfort of your own home with a portable easy-to-use diagnostic device.
My girlfriend snores. Is it possible that she has Sleep Apnea?
Yes. About nine percent of all women have some degree of Sleep Apnea. Home testing is an excellent option for women who don't want to sleep overnight in a laboratory.
I just started using a CPAP device at night. When should I start feeling better?
Most patients begin feeling better within the first week. Some patients may take a week or two longer. If you have any concerns, you can talk to one of our Sleep Care Specialists.
My husband has a mustache and a beard. Will he have to shave these off?
Only if you want him to. But it isn't necessary to achieve successful CPAP therapy.
Will I still snore if I am using a CPAP and Mask?
No. Snoring while on CPAP should not occur. If it does, your pressure level may need to be adjusted.
Could Sleep Apnea be affecting my sex life?
Decreased sexual drive (libido) in females and erectile dysfunction in males may accompany Sleep Apnea. Abnormalities in sexual function can be related to the Sleep Apnea itself and its complications.
Many people with Sleep Apnea are overweight. Besides body-image issues, Sleep Apnea sufferers are often tired and lack energy. Some individuals may also have high blood pressure and diabetes. Treating Sleep Apnea often results in a dramatic improvement in the quality of life.
I often wake up with a headache that sometimes lasts all day. Could this be caused by Sleep Apnea that I'm not sure I have?
Clinical studies have taken a careful look at the connection between morning headaches and Sleep Apnea. In one study, results show that about 34 percent of the people with Sleep Apnea group reported having morning headaches. The people with more severe Sleep Apnea were more likely to wake with a headache, and some woke up in the middle of the night with a headache. Morning headaches also were more common in women than in men.
Some clinicians believe obstruction of the airway while sleeping (Sleep Apnea) causes carbon dioxide(CO2) to build-up in the bloodstream (a condition called hypercapnea). There is also a decrease in oxygen (O2) in the bloodstream which is called hypoxemia. When these two events combine the body responds by increasing blood flow to the brain by dilating the blood vessels that run through it. When these blood vessels dilate, headache pain results.
The good news was that treating Sleep Apnea with CPAP therapy eliminated the annoying nighttime and morning headaches in 90 percent of the patients. Carbon dioxide is reduced and oxygen is increased. As normal CO2 and O2 levels are established in the body, the blood vessels will constrict and the pain will subside
I'm not overweight. Could I still have Sleep Apnea?
Yes. While many people with Sleep Apnea are overweight, the condition occurs among people in all weight categories. In fact, the majority of Sleep Apnea patients are not overweight. These people still suffer from the same symptoms of loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, high blood pressure, cardiovascular complications, morning headaches, memory problems, feelings of depression, reflux, nocturia, and impotence.
Is there a support organization for Sleep Apnea sufferers?
Indeed. The most popular organization is AWAKE (Alert, Well, And Keeping Energetic) sponsored by the American Sleep Apnea Association (ASAA). To find the chapter nearest you, click here: http://www.sleepapnea.org/awake/index.html
How often should I replace my CPAP filter?
Washable, or foam filters, should be rinsed with clear, running water and allowed to air dry. This should be done at least every two weeks, and preferably every week. Remember, this is the air you are breathing at night. Filters should be replaced every 6 months. Disposable (or fine) filters should be replaced once a month. Tubing should be replaced every 30 days. Expect a CPAP Mask to remain effective for about six months.
Sinus infections and nasal congestion often result from the failure to care for and replace disposable equipment regularly. Staying up to date on your equipment replacement is easy with our reminders.
My skin seems irritated and I have marks on my face after wearing a CPAP mask. Is this normal?
Absolutely not. Your mask may be too tight, or you may have the wrong mask size. Nasal pillows may provide a better fit. Our Sleep Care Specialists will be happy to help you. If you are a current SleepQuest patient, we provide our services at no charge. If you aren't a SleepQuest patient, the zero price is the same.
Do I need a prescription to purchase a CPAP device?
If you are purchasing a CPAP Machine, a CPAP Humidifier, or a CPAP Mask, we do need a copy of a prescription written by your doctor. However, a prescription is NOT required if you are purchasing any other supply items.
Will my insurance pay for a diagnostic test and CPAP therapy?
Nearly every insurance plan covers Sleep Apnea services. Depending on your plan, you might have a deductible, or a company-funded Health Savings Account that you can pay out of. Even without insurance, an at-home sleep study is always cheaper than an in-lab test and the cost can often be broken up into a convenient payment plan using a credit card, a medical financing card or even a monthly out-of-pocket payment.
What is a Bi-Level (BiPAP) machine?
A BiPAP machine uses two pressure settings for your therapy. A pressure that is set When you inhale, and a different pressure that is set for when you exhale. The inhale (inspiratory) pressure is always greater than the exhale (expiratory) pressure. This type of machine is usually used for people who have difficulties with a normal CPAP machine, or for people who have other conditions along with their Sleep Apnea.
