Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that often goes undiagnosed. Untreated sleep apnea creates serious health risks including higher risk of stroke and heart disease. New technology however makes it much easier to diagnose and treat sleep apnea at home. Sleep apnea solutions like home sleep tests and different types of CPAP masks like cpap masks for side sleepers allow sufferers to get a full night of uninterrupted sleep.

Diagnosing sleep apnea can be a challenge
Sleep apnea can be difficult to diagnose, because by definition the sufferer is asleep when it occurs. Even if another person is present, they may not be trained to spot and identify the symptoms. At the same time, if left untreated, sleep apnea can pose serious risks to health and safety. These can include higher risk of stroke and heart disease.
In fact the National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research reports that cardiovascular problems linked to sleep apnea are responsible for around 38,000 deaths each year. Around one out of 50 individuals is estimated to be suffering from undiagnosed sleep apnea Diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea are thus a high priority for anyone who may be suffering from this disorder.

Home test for sleep apnea
Many people who suspect that they suffer from sleep apnea may not be comfortable going into a laboratory setting to be tested. That requires their sleep to be filmed with video cameras, while they are hooked up to all kinds of monitors. Many people are uncomfortable with the idea of strangers watching them while they sleep, and may even be unable to sleep under those conditions.
With the home sleep test for sleep apnea, sufferers can test themselves in the privacy of their own homes. A positive test can be used to prescribe treatment via CPAP machines. People who have used the home sleep test and started treatment report feeling better than they have done in a long time. In many cases, people who receive a positive result with the home test can go on to a full laboratory test, knowing that the expense and effort will be justified.

Using CPAP machines effectively
Once diagnosed, sleep apnea can be treated using CPAP machines that keep the nasal passages open during sleep. This can give sufferers a good night of uninterrupted sleep, which has an immediate impact on their health and well being. It also improves their overall health outcomes by reducing the risk of serious problems like stroke and cardiovascular disease.
CPAP machines can take some getting used to, but there are many adjustments that can be made for greater comfort. Different types of masks like cpap masks for side sleepers, and nasal pillows can be used according to individual preferences. Using CPAP machines can dry out the nasal passages, and humidification may be necessary especially for older people. In fact for sufferers over 60 years of age, heated humidification is considered to be five times more necessary.

Sleep apnea can be difficult to diagnose but many people find home sleep test helpful. These can be the first step in starting treatment using CPAP machines, cpap masks for side sleepers, nasal pillows and other sleep apnea equipment.