Alcohol and Sleep Apnea
I have always heard that having a drink to relax your body before bed will help you sleep better. Not only is this completely false, but is actually the opposite of what really happens. Drinking before bedtime could actually be deadly for patients who suffer from sleep apnea.
A report by the National Institute of Alcohol abuse and alcoholism states that even moderate doses of alcohol consumption can lead to narrowing of the air passage ways causing symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in patients who are typically asymptomatic. The study also showed increased symptoms in patients who do suffer from OSA. The alcohol relaxes the muscles in the throat and alters the brains ability to monitor oxygen levels properly. These can increase the person’s risk for heart attacks, arrhythmia, stroke, and sudden death.
We all should know not to drink and drive, but many think having just a few is safe. On its own OSA has been associated with impaired driving performance, and falling asleep at the wheel. This study showed a 5 fold increase for traffic accidents for patients with OSA who had consumed even just 2 drinks and got behind the wheel.
It is important for us all to have correct information. I urge all of us to take the time to research some of our common beliefs such as alcohol helping to induce peaceful sleep and make sure we are not being misinformed. It could save your life.
Kim Cavazos
Active American Mobility
www.aamobility.com
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
The Cost of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
For those of us who have health insurance, we are lucky that most will cover part if not all of the cost for a CPAP machine. With the rising number of job losses in this country, many people are left without health insurance. Unfortunately for some this may mean having to make decisions on what to spend their money on and what they may be able to go without.
The typical cost of a new CPAP machine with accessories starts at $1200. Initially this price seems like a big expense; however research has shown the” actual” cost of going without the help of a CPAP machine is much greater. St. Bonaface Hospital in Canada did a research study on the past 10 years of health care expenses for people diagnosed with OSA vs. patients who do not have OSA. The results were astounding. Physician claims for patients newly diagnosed with OSA for the past 10 years averaged $686,365 or $3972 per person vs. only $36,376 or $1969 for those without OSA. Hospital stays for persons with OSA averaged 1118 days or 6.2 per person vs. 676 days or 3.7 for those without OSA.
By the time many patients are properly diagnosed with OSA they have already spent a substantial amount of money on their healthcare versus those without OSA. For those of us with insurance who complain about our deductibles or co-pays we need to focus on the amount we may be saving in the long run. For those of you who may be faced with having to pay cash for their CPAP, do your research. The cost of not taking care of this deadly disease properly could potentially lead to bigger medical bills in the future. Ask your provider to work with you; many are willing to split up payments. Another option is to ask about used equipment. Many stores like Active American may have used CPAP’s for as low as $750.
If you need a CPAP or have questions about supplies please call us.
Kim Cavazos
Active American Mobility
REHAB & DISTRIBUTION CENTER
Stafford, TX
13003 Murphy Road, Suite M-12Stafford, TX 77477
Ph.281-495-4400Ph.281-495-4401
RETAIL LOCATIONS
Sugar Land, TX
15229 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478
Ph.281-265-3155Ph.281-265-6058
Webster, TX
17312 Highway 3 Webster, TX 77598
Ph.281-338-0701Ph.281-338-0703
Lake Jackson, TX
120 Circle Way, Suite 7C Lake Jackson, TX 77566
Ph.979-297-3155Ph.979-297-2695
Free Counter
The typical cost of a new CPAP machine with accessories starts at $1200. Initially this price seems like a big expense; however research has shown the” actual” cost of going without the help of a CPAP machine is much greater. St. Bonaface Hospital in Canada did a research study on the past 10 years of health care expenses for people diagnosed with OSA vs. patients who do not have OSA. The results were astounding. Physician claims for patients newly diagnosed with OSA for the past 10 years averaged $686,365 or $3972 per person vs. only $36,376 or $1969 for those without OSA. Hospital stays for persons with OSA averaged 1118 days or 6.2 per person vs. 676 days or 3.7 for those without OSA.
By the time many patients are properly diagnosed with OSA they have already spent a substantial amount of money on their healthcare versus those without OSA. For those of us with insurance who complain about our deductibles or co-pays we need to focus on the amount we may be saving in the long run. For those of you who may be faced with having to pay cash for their CPAP, do your research. The cost of not taking care of this deadly disease properly could potentially lead to bigger medical bills in the future. Ask your provider to work with you; many are willing to split up payments. Another option is to ask about used equipment. Many stores like Active American may have used CPAP’s for as low as $750.
If you need a CPAP or have questions about supplies please call us.
Kim Cavazos
Active American Mobility
REHAB & DISTRIBUTION CENTER
Stafford, TX
13003 Murphy Road, Suite M-12Stafford, TX 77477
Ph.281-495-4400Ph.281-495-4401
RETAIL LOCATIONS
Sugar Land, TX
15229 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478
Ph.281-265-3155Ph.281-265-6058
Webster, TX
17312 Highway 3 Webster, TX 77598
Ph.281-338-0701Ph.281-338-0703
Lake Jackson, TX
120 Circle Way, Suite 7C Lake Jackson, TX 77566
Ph.979-297-3155Ph.979-297-2695
Free Counter
Monday, April 20, 2009
Can CPAP improve the lives of patient’s with Alzheimer’s?
A study in December 2008 out of The University of California San Diego says yes it can! As you may know, Obstructive Sleep Apnea has been proven to decrease a normal person’s mental abilities such as memory and mental processing speeds. The use of CPAP therapy in these patients shows great improvement on neurological testing. What I just learned is that patients who already have diminished neurological functioning such as patients with Alzheimer’s can greatly benefit from CPAP as well.
The prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Alzheimer’s patients is as high as 70-80%. While OSA does not cause dementia it is proven that decreased levels of oxygen worsen cognitive functions. This study took a group of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s as well as mild to moderate OSA and looked at neurological testing after the patients used the CPAP. The entire group in the study showed significant improvements in all 3 categories; verbal ability, memory, and mental processing speeds.
If you or a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s and has even mild OSA, talk to their physician about CPAP treatment. Not only can it improve the patient’s life, but it may also improve the life of the caregiver.
Kim Cavazos
Active American Mobility and Medical Supply
aamobility.com
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The prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Alzheimer’s patients is as high as 70-80%. While OSA does not cause dementia it is proven that decreased levels of oxygen worsen cognitive functions. This study took a group of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s as well as mild to moderate OSA and looked at neurological testing after the patients used the CPAP. The entire group in the study showed significant improvements in all 3 categories; verbal ability, memory, and mental processing speeds.
If you or a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s and has even mild OSA, talk to their physician about CPAP treatment. Not only can it improve the patient’s life, but it may also improve the life of the caregiver.
Kim Cavazos
Active American Mobility and Medical Supply
aamobility.com
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Wednesday, April 8, 2009
What is a CPAP Humidifier and Do I Need One?
What is a CPAP Humidifier and Do I Need One?
CPAP Humidifiers are designed to moisturize the air that is being delivered to you by way of your CPAP machine. There are two types of humidifiers, one humidifier is heated and the other is not.
Not all CPAP's have humidifiers, but all patients who get a CPAP from Active American Mobility will receive a humidifier with their equipment. Most humidifiers are already built into the machine.
There may be some uncomfortable side effects as a result of using a CPAP that may be resolved by the use of a humidifier. Some CPAP patients experience nasal passage irritation. The symptoms may occur immediately after using the CPAP or can build up after using the equipment for a long period of time. They may also experience nasal dryness, swelling, excess mucous, congestion, sneezing or even bleeding. Because of the excess dryness and irritation, patients become vulnerable for infections in the nasal passageway.
A heated humidifier uses heat to provide moisture to the patient's nostrils. The amount of moisture that is provided can be adjusted by the patient. A nonheated humidifier is also known as a passover humidifier. This type of humidifier has a chamber of water that is connected to the CPAP and as the air flows from the machine through a hose, the air picks up moisture as it "passes over" the water in the chamber. There is no way to adjust the amount of moisture being provided by this type of humidifier. The "passover" humidifier is not recommended for patients who live in cold climates since the temperature of the water in the chamber can drop significantly and therefore reduce the level of moisture.
There are humidifiers that are built in to the CPAP machine and there are stand alone humidifiers. The built in humidifier is more compact than the stand alone and therefore may provide less moisture since the water surface area is smaller. The built in humidifier can be inconvenient for the patient who travels often since it can not be taken apart for easier travel. The stand alone humidifier is adaptable for any CPAP unit and can provide a significant amount of moisture. It does require extra space for set-up and its own power cord. But for patients who travel freqently, you may choose to leave the humidifier at home and only take your CPAP machine.
Not everyone needs a humidifier, but it can provide much needed comfort for the patient who experiences the side effects listed above. When having your CPAP delivered and set up for you, it may be advisable to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a humidifier with your provider.
Active American Mobility has trained CPAP/humidifier specialists at each location. Never hesitate to ask any questions and we will always be happy to provide you with the best care possible.
Free Counter
Bonnie Trihus
Marketing Representative
Active American Mobility Medical Supply
979-292-9836
www.aamobility.com
CPAP Humidifiers are designed to moisturize the air that is being delivered to you by way of your CPAP machine. There are two types of humidifiers, one humidifier is heated and the other is not.
Not all CPAP's have humidifiers, but all patients who get a CPAP from Active American Mobility will receive a humidifier with their equipment. Most humidifiers are already built into the machine.
There may be some uncomfortable side effects as a result of using a CPAP that may be resolved by the use of a humidifier. Some CPAP patients experience nasal passage irritation. The symptoms may occur immediately after using the CPAP or can build up after using the equipment for a long period of time. They may also experience nasal dryness, swelling, excess mucous, congestion, sneezing or even bleeding. Because of the excess dryness and irritation, patients become vulnerable for infections in the nasal passageway.
A heated humidifier uses heat to provide moisture to the patient's nostrils. The amount of moisture that is provided can be adjusted by the patient. A nonheated humidifier is also known as a passover humidifier. This type of humidifier has a chamber of water that is connected to the CPAP and as the air flows from the machine through a hose, the air picks up moisture as it "passes over" the water in the chamber. There is no way to adjust the amount of moisture being provided by this type of humidifier. The "passover" humidifier is not recommended for patients who live in cold climates since the temperature of the water in the chamber can drop significantly and therefore reduce the level of moisture.
There are humidifiers that are built in to the CPAP machine and there are stand alone humidifiers. The built in humidifier is more compact than the stand alone and therefore may provide less moisture since the water surface area is smaller. The built in humidifier can be inconvenient for the patient who travels often since it can not be taken apart for easier travel. The stand alone humidifier is adaptable for any CPAP unit and can provide a significant amount of moisture. It does require extra space for set-up and its own power cord. But for patients who travel freqently, you may choose to leave the humidifier at home and only take your CPAP machine.
Not everyone needs a humidifier, but it can provide much needed comfort for the patient who experiences the side effects listed above. When having your CPAP delivered and set up for you, it may be advisable to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a humidifier with your provider.
Active American Mobility has trained CPAP/humidifier specialists at each location. Never hesitate to ask any questions and we will always be happy to provide you with the best care possible.
Free Counter
Bonnie Trihus
Marketing Representative
Active American Mobility Medical Supply
979-292-9836
www.aamobility.com
Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children
As a parent, I am always on the lookout for things that may be wrong with my daughters both emotionally or physically. I was recently shocked to learn that my daughter has some of the classic signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea that I contributed to her being a restless sleeper. There are 7 major signs to look for in your children.
Difficulty Breathing when asleep
Pausing in Breathing
Snoring
Restless Sleep
Sweating
Nightmares
Bed Wetting
Childhood Obstructive Sleep Apnea affects about 3% of kids in the United States. It is important to know that OSA affects more than just a child’s sleep. The National Institute of Child Health & Human Development did a study in October 2004 that showed children with obstructive sleep apnea score lower than other kids their age on mental development tests. More disturbing research associates OSA as a contributing factor for kids with Attention Deficit Disorder. Studies also show that children secret (GH) growth hormone at night time and OSA disrupts this event causing some children to have slower physical growth as well.
The common treatment for children with OSA is to remove their tonsils and adenoids. However, in some children the procedure is ineffective. In other cases, like children with hemophilia, it may be unsafe to perform the surgery. In 2006 the FDA approved the first pediatric CPAP machine the Mirage Kidsta mask and VPAP III. It is approved for children over 7 years old and 40+ lbs.
While OSA is generally associated with adults, it is important to be aware that it affects children as well. It is our job as parents to know the signs and act quickly when we recognize them in our children. The first step is to take them to their pediatrician. They will more than likely send them for a sleep study. The results of this test will confirm if further action is needed whether that is surgery or a pediatric VPAP.
Kim Cavazos
Active American Mobility and Medical Supply
Webster TX
aamobility.com
Free Counter
Difficulty Breathing when asleep
Pausing in Breathing
Snoring
Restless Sleep
Sweating
Nightmares
Bed Wetting
Childhood Obstructive Sleep Apnea affects about 3% of kids in the United States. It is important to know that OSA affects more than just a child’s sleep. The National Institute of Child Health & Human Development did a study in October 2004 that showed children with obstructive sleep apnea score lower than other kids their age on mental development tests. More disturbing research associates OSA as a contributing factor for kids with Attention Deficit Disorder. Studies also show that children secret (GH) growth hormone at night time and OSA disrupts this event causing some children to have slower physical growth as well.
The common treatment for children with OSA is to remove their tonsils and adenoids. However, in some children the procedure is ineffective. In other cases, like children with hemophilia, it may be unsafe to perform the surgery. In 2006 the FDA approved the first pediatric CPAP machine the Mirage Kidsta mask and VPAP III. It is approved for children over 7 years old and 40+ lbs.
While OSA is generally associated with adults, it is important to be aware that it affects children as well. It is our job as parents to know the signs and act quickly when we recognize them in our children. The first step is to take them to their pediatrician. They will more than likely send them for a sleep study. The results of this test will confirm if further action is needed whether that is surgery or a pediatric VPAP.
Kim Cavazos
Active American Mobility and Medical Supply
Webster TX
aamobility.com
Free Counter
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Proper CPAP Compliance Shown to Greatly Increase Patients Memory
A common complaint by many who suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea is forgetfulness or memory loss. In 2006, Dr. Aloia and colleagues of Brown University Medical School decided to examine 58 patients with OSA who claim to have memory loss.
All participants underwent cognitive evaluations for verbal memory as a base line for the study. The same test was administered again at the end of the 3 month trial. Initial results show that all participants had equal memory impairment with scores below 2 standard deviation (SD) from normal memory ability. The patients were then issued CPAP machines with internal compliance recorders and used them for 3 months. At the end, users were divided into 3 categories; group 1 were poor users with <2 hours of use a night, group 2 were moderate users with 2 – 6 hours of use a night, and group 3 were optimal users with 6+ hours of use a night. The final results were impressive with 21% of group 1, 44% of group 2, and 68% of group 3 demonstrating normal memory ability when tested after 3 months of CPAP use.
Patients often have trouble becoming adjusted or continually being compliant with the CPAP. They need encouraging and motivation to find a way to make this system work for them and improve their lives. Knowing about results that may occur like a significant increase in their memory may help them on their road to CPAP compliance.
Kim Cavazos
Active American Mobility and Medical Supply
Sugar Land, Webster, & Stafford Texas
Free Counter
All participants underwent cognitive evaluations for verbal memory as a base line for the study. The same test was administered again at the end of the 3 month trial. Initial results show that all participants had equal memory impairment with scores below 2 standard deviation (SD) from normal memory ability. The patients were then issued CPAP machines with internal compliance recorders and used them for 3 months. At the end, users were divided into 3 categories; group 1 were poor users with <2 hours of use a night, group 2 were moderate users with 2 – 6 hours of use a night, and group 3 were optimal users with 6+ hours of use a night. The final results were impressive with 21% of group 1, 44% of group 2, and 68% of group 3 demonstrating normal memory ability when tested after 3 months of CPAP use.
Patients often have trouble becoming adjusted or continually being compliant with the CPAP. They need encouraging and motivation to find a way to make this system work for them and improve their lives. Knowing about results that may occur like a significant increase in their memory may help them on their road to CPAP compliance.
Kim Cavazos
Active American Mobility and Medical Supply
Sugar Land, Webster, & Stafford Texas
Free Counter
Friday, February 27, 2009
Cognitive Therapy greatly increases CPAP compliance
An Australian study on Obstructive Sleep Apnea shows that education greatly increases compliance among CPAP users. A group of 100 newly diagnosed OSA sufferers were separated into two groups. One group was treated as usual; given diagnosis, a brief explanation of the disease and a brief demonstration of the CPAP machine. The other group had a 2 hour Cognitive Therapy intervention. During this two hour intervention patients were shown a video of actual CPAP users describing their road to success with the machine. They were encouraged to ask questions and seek help when struggling personally.
The long term benefits of correct CPAP compliance were explained to them in great detail. They were also given a written manual that went over what was covered in the meeting. The results of this inexpensive brief intervention were astounding; 77% of those who attended the 2 hour session properly used their CPAP for 4 hours or more each night compared to only 31% in the traditional group. Only 8% in the Cognitive Therapy group totally rejected the CPAP as compared to 30% in the traditional group.
This study shows with a little more effort from the clinician and CPAP supplier more patients could benefit from CPAPs.
Active American does an excellent job at educating their clients. We take between 30 minutes to an hour to go over every aspect of the CPAP machine. We then have the patient teach what they have learned back to us. We also discuss the long term benefits of proper use. Our machines record hours of nightly use so we can keep track of compliance.
We encourage patients to call with any questions or concerns. We take the initiative to call each new CPAP client one week after receiving their equipment to see how they are doing. We also started this blog on our website to communicate interesting and educational information between users. I encourage everyone to take a look at this exciting study at the link below and make sure to educate yourself and fellow users on the benefits of proper CPAP compliance.
Kimberly Cavazos
aamobility.com
The long term benefits of correct CPAP compliance were explained to them in great detail. They were also given a written manual that went over what was covered in the meeting. The results of this inexpensive brief intervention were astounding; 77% of those who attended the 2 hour session properly used their CPAP for 4 hours or more each night compared to only 31% in the traditional group. Only 8% in the Cognitive Therapy group totally rejected the CPAP as compared to 30% in the traditional group.
This study shows with a little more effort from the clinician and CPAP supplier more patients could benefit from CPAPs.
Active American does an excellent job at educating their clients. We take between 30 minutes to an hour to go over every aspect of the CPAP machine. We then have the patient teach what they have learned back to us. We also discuss the long term benefits of proper use. Our machines record hours of nightly use so we can keep track of compliance.
We encourage patients to call with any questions or concerns. We take the initiative to call each new CPAP client one week after receiving their equipment to see how they are doing. We also started this blog on our website to communicate interesting and educational information between users. I encourage everyone to take a look at this exciting study at the link below and make sure to educate yourself and fellow users on the benefits of proper CPAP compliance.
Kimberly Cavazos
aamobility.com
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