Adhering to CPAP therapy helps sleep patients concentrate better, enjoy better emotional health, experience improved memory and have better physical health in some cases, according to a new study conducted by sleep therapy provider National Sleep Therapy.
The study surveyed more than 120 individuals with a history of sleep apnea who now use doctor-prescribed CPA in order to gain insights into the benefits of their compliance with their sleep therapy. The survey was devised by NST President and co-founder Eric Cohen.
Some key findings:
- 48 percent are able to stay awake more during the day.
- 40 percent drive and focus on tasks better.
- 28 percent have a better attitude.
- 28 percent are less grumpy.
- 21 percent feel better overall.
- 20 percent feel like themselves again.
- 18 percent gained better control over hypertension.
- 13 percent have a better memory.
- 6 percent feel more creative.
- 3 percent have a better love life.
(Respondents could check off as many benefits as they received from CPAP therapy, which is why the figures add up to more than 100 percent.)
Several respondents noted that their migraine headaches had disappeared. Others said they no longer snore (a benefit for their partner), no longer need daytime naps, and they sleep through the night. The survey asked respondents for advice for new CPAP users.
Comments included:
- “Don’t give up. Take the time to adjust. It’s worth the inconvenience.”
- “Be patient and relax. Use it faithfully.”
- “It took me quite awhile to completely get used to wearing it, but now I wouldn’t want to miss it because of my improved quality of life.”
It’s estimated that over 18 million Americans have sleep apnea and most have yet to be diagnosed. The resulting chronic fatigue can lead to a host of serious diseases, a shorter lifespan, and workplace and highway accidents. CPAP therapy is a key treatment method for people with sleep apnea, and positive outcomes result when patients adhere to doctor’s recommendations and proper use of equipment.