Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about sleep apnea, testing, and CPAP therapy.
Most people snore occasionally — especially when they have a cold, are overtired, sleeping on their back, or after drinking alcohol or taking certain medications. But frequent or loud snoring can be a sign of something more serious: sleep apnea.
Snoring happens when the throat partially closes during sleep, causing the surrounding tissue to vibrate. In some people, the throat closes off completely, causing them to stop breathing entirely. This is sleep apnea — and it’s associated with daytime fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, and increased risk of heart disease.
No — most people can be tested in the comfort of their own bed. We send you home with a small device that includes a belt, a finger probe, and a breathing monitor. You put it on before bed and remove it in the morning. The data is then sent to a physician who specializes in sleep medicine for assessment. We’ll call you with your results, and a report is sent to your family doctor.
Absolutely. CPAP therapy has come a long way, and there are many mask styles to choose from. Many patients do very well with a small, minimal device that sits under the nose, with a gentle flow of air keeping the airway open so they can breathe normally through the night. The result is deeper, uninterrupted sleep — instead of the repeated awakenings that come with untreated sleep apnea. We offer a free one-month trial so you can find what works for you before committing to anything.
Older machines can be — but today’s CPAP machines are remarkably quiet, almost silent. A CPAP machine has a typical lifespan of five to six years; after that, the motor can become noisy and the pressure regulation less reliable. If your machine is older and you find it disruptive, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Either way, a new CPAP machine is far quieter than snoring.
Most health insurance plans cover CPAP equipment. If you already own a machine, your plan likely covers replacement supplies such as tubing and filters. A new machine is generally covered by insurance every five years. We’re happy to help you navigate your coverage — just ask us.
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