How to Avoid Panic Attacks When Beginning CPAP Therapy

cpap machine panic attacksCan cpap cause panic attacks? Panic attacks may be popular among people who are first beginning CPAP therapy. Based on a 2012 study at the University of California, when a person has an apnea, their body discharges hormones of anxiety and panic in trying to restore breathing. Additionally, people who suffer from panic attacks are generally more likely to have frequent episodes while trying to fall asleep or while sleeping.

Having a CPAP mask covering your face is an innovative sensation that requires a small adjustment period. In general, it can understandably lead to feelings of suffocation since most users are not used to having something cover their face. Even so, the reality is that if you have sleep apnea and are not wearing a CPAP mask, your risk from suffocation and panic attack cpap compilation is immeasurably greater.

Get Professional Help

Users on several CPAP support forums have some excellent advice about how to avoid panic attacks, and they speak from experience. Experts suggests really examining your full face mask. When you can see that the mask integrates a valve that lets fresh air in from around you, not just from the CPAP machine. You will know that you cannot suffocate with the mask on even if the machine abruptly stops working.

CPAP users who report having challenges with cpap machine panic attacks have mixed mask reviews. The users mentioned that the nasal mask instead of than the full face mask, is better for them because one can open the mouth to breathe if there is really needs to. However, other users suggest that the chin strap that can be used with the nasal mask makes them feel trapped. Additionally, they say that the full face mask is more comfortable.

Breathing Exercises

Another way to be more comfortable with your sleep apnea mask selection is by doing breathing exercises. You should slowly inhale for four seconds, then exhale for four seconds. Count to ten and concentrate on breathing if you feel like you are starting to get panicky with your mask on. When your body recognizes it can breathe through the mask, it will not automatically tense up when it is supposed to be relaxing and sleeping.
cpap machine side effectsFurthermore, you should turn the cpap machine on to feel how your body reacts to the feel of the pressure. It will provide your brain a good understanding of how the machine will work and feel while in use. Recall that an automatic machine only ramps up its pressure when it is required. Therefore, do not be terrified if you have the mask on while your awake and the pressure is very low. The machine is designed to keep you sleeping comfortably and without CPAP Machine Side Effects!

If you have concerns about your equipment, do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We are always available to answer questions.

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