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.
