Sleep Apnea. I had no idea how common it was or how serious it was to my health. Do you know what it is and how you should treat it?

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 11:14:19 -0400

I have been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea. I had no idea how common this medical malady is nor how significant it is as a contributing factor to so many other medical diseases. Unfortunately, I have the severely obstructive variety. Now comes the oxygen mask I must wear at night for the rest of my life.

Want to know if you have it? Ask - do I snore? Yes?

Then, please get yourself tested ASAP.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Apr 13 at 2017 11:23 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 11:23:58 -0400

Been using the full face model for years. When I was tested with a sleep study they woke me up after an hour and ended the test - I had something like 25 episodes in the first hour. I snored, had diabetes, high blood pressure, fuzzy memory, and a small stroke. I had previously fallen asleep at my desk at work several times, and almost fell asleep a number of times in rush hour traffic before I got my CPAP unit.

CPAP is easy to get used to and feels as natural as breathing while SCUBA diving, and I feel better all day long.

CPAP is a life saver.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Apr 13 at 2017 1:30 PM

SN Greg Wright — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 13:30:56 -0400

Snoring is not a sure indicator. Snorting likely is. However, the test is so simple now compared to when I did it, that anyone that has doubt should just do it. They just mail you a device that you stick on your finger and sleep, then mail back. Quick and easy. As for how bad it is, it will, over time, kill you. The oxygen deprivation eventually degrades your organs, and it's all downhill from there. Not to mention the risk of an episode that your lizard brain doesn't kick you awake from.

Response by 1stSgt Eugene Harless made Apr 13 at 2017 6:26 PM

1stSgt Eugene Harless — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 18:26:17 -0400

Another tip for active service members. If you snore or find you aren't sleeping well, bring it up on your final physical, and get a sleep study done. Sleep Apnea CAN be considered service connected and rate a pension.

Response by PFC Roger Goff made Apr 13 at 2017 9:51 PM

PFC Roger Goff — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 21:51:48 -0400

I have severe sleep apnea and had a UPPP surgery. Removed my adenoids, tonsils and uvula (the lil guy that hangs in the back of your mouth). Still required a CPAP machine but I prefer the full face mask as my mouth comes open while I sleep. I wear it religiously, even for a nap. Seems I would stop breathing 100 times in an hour. I get additional sleep studies almost annual for changes occur, and adjustments are required.