Sleep apnoea (also spelled apnea) is a medical condition whereby the person’s airways are blocked while sleeping, which usually leads to the person gasping and waking up. If this happens night after night, it will have a negative impact on your life, indeed, many sufferers are unaware they have this problem, especially those who sleep alone. It is often accompanied by loud snoring, and if your partner complains that you snore and/or make choking noises, this should be investigated promptly.

Daytime Symptoms of Sleep Apnoea

Often, the sufferer becomes drowsy, which is dangerous when driving or operating machinery, and they might experience sudden mood swings, for no apparent reason. If your partner mentions how irritable you have become, this could be due to inadequate sleep, and you should ask your partner if they have noticed any of the following while you are asleep:

• Making choking or gasping sounds.
• Waking up for no apparent reason.
• Loud snoring.

If a person is constantly feeling fatigued, this is also a sign of a sleep disorder, and the recommended treatment is using CPAP machines when sleeping. The constant positive airway pressure (CPAP) prevents the airway from collapsing, and this means you can enjoy uninterrupted sleep.

Consult your GP

If you suspect you might be suffering from a sleep disorder, make an appointment to see your doctor, who would examine you and ask a lot of questions to determine whether or not you are suffering from sleep apnoea. If your doctor diagnoses you with sleep apnoea, the practitioner would probably recommend using a CPAP machine, and to be certain, you might be asked to spend some time at a sleep centre, where your sleeping habits can be monitored.

Sourcing a CPAP Machine

Fortunately, there are special websites that are dedicated to CPAP related products, where you can order CPAP machines and any of the accessories that might be needed. The website would offer resources regarding sleep apnoea, which can be very useful in discovering the best form of treatment.

Main CPAP Machine Features

The latest generation of CPAP machines are light, weighing in at around 800g, and can simply be plugged into a socket by your bed for ease of use. The device would have an easy to see LED control panel that allows you to make adjustments. Some models have multiple USB ports for charging devices, and there are compact models that are ideal for travelling.

If you think you might be having interruptions while sleeping, talk to your doctor and make an appointment and he or she can investigate further.