CPAP Wholesale Blog

Using Sleep Apnea Machines for Anxiety

December 13, 2011 on 2:16 pm | In cpap | No Comments

Anxiety disorders can trigger sleeping problems, such as apnea, where the airways are temporarily shut off. Not only will sufferers of sleep apnea experience losses of air, but loss of sleep as well. CPAP machines can help with both sleep and the mental and emotional side effects of fatigue caused by sleep apnea.

How It Works

When people sleep, their muscles relax, including the muscles of the jaw. When the jaw falls open, this narrows the sleeper’s airways. In many people, this narrowing of the airways only causes snoring, but with sleep apnea, it’s much worse. CPAP machines create a continual stream of air into a sleeper’s mouth. This helps keeps the airway open. This also helps premature babies with lung problems to breathe until they are strong enough to leave the hospital.

But how does this help anxiety? Severe versions of this disorder may intensify sleep apnea. People who suffer from panic attacks can suffer panic attacks while trying to fall asleep or while they are sleeping. People who suffer from extreme nightmares may delay going to bed for as long as possible. Their bodies do not get the rest that they need. Drowsiness can lead to feelings of confusion, irritability, breathlessness, a racing heart, chest tightness and panic. All of these sensations combined may trigger a panic attack.

A sleeper needs to wear an oxygen mask in order to receive the air flow. The air flow is always the same intensity. However, a doctor can usually help adjust the air flow for each patient’s needs. The mask is connected to a tube attached to the CPAP machine or a specialized pillow. It can take a few nights to get used to wearing the CPAP mask, but most people quickly adjust to their new sleep procedure.

Getting better rest will not instantly cure anyone of either anxiety or sleep apnea. But it can be used in conjunction with other therapies, medications and cognitive behavior therapy. Keeping a journal can help patients learn what foods, drinks or activities keep them wired instead of being relaxed enough to drift into slumber.