Sleep Treatment Transforms Lives of Sleep Apnea Patients : Sleep apnea can lead to health issues like stroke, heart attack, and dementia if not managed. Many people are unaware of available treatments, but Dick Murray and Ed Schoonmaker sleep better due to treatment.
Murray and Schoonmaker have been friends for 40 years and live next door. They are both 78 years old. Despite their busy schedules, filled with activities like golf and Euchre, they struggled with sleep.
Murray felt tired and had low energy, while Schoonmaker’s wife mentioned his nighttime breathing issues. They both had sleep apnea, discovered through sleep tests. During tests, Murray stopped breathing for 8-13 seconds, occurring approximately 34 times per hour.
CPAP machines treat sleep apnea but were uncomfortable for both guys. The tools hindered their sleep and caused difficulties. In 2021 and 2022, they consulted Dr. Asim Roy, a sleep medicine expert, for a solution.
Dr. Roy discussed instruction and various sleep apnea treatments. He mentioned a technique called Inspire Sleep that stimulates nerves. This treatment uses a chest device, similar to a pacemaker, with a wire connected to the tongue nerve. The device massages the tongue to keep the lungs open during sleep.
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Murray had the Inspire Sleep surgery before Schoonmaker, and he said it changed his life. He said his Medicare insurance covered the treatment with only a small out-of-pocket payment. Murray became a missionary due to his experience. He assisted Schoonmaker throughout the process, even during his wife’s injury.
The Inspire Sleep treatment was approved by insurance companies, Medicare, and the VA. To qualify, patients must be 18 or older, diagnosed with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, have difficulty using CPAP, and meet weight criteria. Treatment is helpful but may cause infections, pain, or weak tongue.
Dr. Roy discussed the improved accessibility and care for sleep apnea. Murray and Schoonmaker’s health and quality of life improved significantly after treatment. Murray lost 32 lbs, regained energy, and became busier. Schoonmaker lost 25 lbs and went to the Senior Olympics for golf.
Murray now wakes up less frequently due to breathing issues, and Schoonmaker’s story demonstrates the effectiveness of Inspire Sleep treatment.
Improving medical technology allows more sleep apnea patients to explore advanced treatments like Inspire Sleep for improved sleep, health, and overall well-being.
Our Reader’s Queries
Can you live a long life with treated sleep apnea?
If you suffer from severe sleep apnea and are under 50 years old, you can expect to live for eight to 18 years with proper treatment using either oral appliance therapy or the CPAP machine. On the other hand, those with mild sleep apnea who do not receive treatment may experience health complications similar to those discussed in this article. It’s important to seek treatment for sleep apnea to avoid potential health risks.
Will a CPAP machine extend my life?
Sticking to CPAP treatment can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease-related death by 36% and lower the risk of death from any cause by 40%, according to a recent study. Patients who remained committed to the treatment over the study period experienced these benefits. This highlights the importance of adhering to CPAP treatment for those with sleep apnea, as it can have a significant impact on overall health and longevity.
Can I live to be 100 with sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can result in premature death. Studies have revealed that individuals with sleep apnea are at a higher risk of mortality due to the disruption of their circadian rhythms, which affects the body and brain’s chemistry. This condition also leads to increased blood pressure, cardiac and respiratory function disruption, and elevated heart rate. It is crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect you have sleep apnea to avoid any potential health risks.
How I cured my sleep apnea?
To alleviate mild obstructive sleep apnea, there are several natural remedies that can be tried at home. These include weight loss techniques, adopting a healthy lifestyle, sleeping on your side, elevating the head of your bed, playing a wind instrument or singing, and wearing oral or dental appliances. By incorporating these simple changes into your routine, you may be able to improve your sleep quality and reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea.