Patient/caregiver were instructed regarding lifestyle measures for individuals with central sleep apnea as follows:
- Breathing devices, such as, positive airway pressure machines, could be recommended to individuals with sleep apnea. Use of positive airway pressure machines, such as, CPAP and BiPAP during sleep time can help maintain airways patent and prevent episodes of sleep apnea from happening. Observe compliance with recommendations made for use of breathing devices, if any. Observe compliance with doctor visits, as scheduled. Do not forget to take your breathing device for the visit, as the chip reading could provide a lot of input regarding the management of sleep apnea.
- Individuals with sleep apnea could also choose to have a stimulation device surgically implanted in one’s body. Stimulation devices study the breathing pattern of the individual through the night and stimulate appropriate muscles that help keep airways patent, as needed. Stimulation devices are also available to help position the tongue and prevent the tongue from falling back during sleep. This results in maintaining the airway patent and contributes towards preventing an episode of sleep apnea. Individuals with implanted stimulation device for sleep apnea management & prevention must check periodically with the doctor regarding the functionality of the device, remaining battery life, and timely replacement of the battery.
- Individuals with history of chronic alcoholism and/or alcohol abuse can present with suppression of the higher centers in the brain controlling the respiratory activity. This can result in poor signal transmission to the muscles controlling the respiratory activity, thus contributing to development of central sleep apnea. Individuals with history of chronic alcoholism and/or alcohol abuse must observe compliance with recommendations for abstinence from alcohol intake or alcohol consumption in moderation to help prevent episodes of central sleep apnea. Seeking assistance with rehab centers & behavioral therapy interventions to control the alcohol addiction can help. Enrolling & participation in alcoholics anonymous programs can also contribute to addiction control. 24/7 free and confidential SAMHSA national helpline is also available for addiction control assistance.
