Patient/caregiver were instructed regarding management measures for obstructive sleep apnea as follows:
- Individuals with chronic smoking history can present with increased risk for inflammation of upper airways, with narrowing and collapse of airways. This can result in obstruction to the free airflow during breathing, thus leading to increased risk for presentation with episodes of obstructive sleep apnea. Individuals with history of smoking must observe compliance with recommendations for smoking cessation. Identifying the triggers and social associations that are associated with continuing the smoking habit can help towards controlling the habit effectively. Seeking assistance with rehab centers & behavioral counselling can help towards smoking cessation. Controlling the smoking habit can lead to improved outcomes for individuals with sleep apnea.
- Individuals with history of poorly controlled obstructive respiratory disorders, such as, asthma and COPD, can present with increased risk for narrowed or collapsed airways. This can result in obstruction to the free airflow, thus leading to increased risk for presentation with episodes of obstructive sleep apnea. Individuals with history of respiratory disorders must observe compliance with use of inhaler & nebulizer medications, as prescribed. Avoiding environmental triggers that contribute to exacerbation of asthma & COPD symptoms can also help.
- If CPAP is being used for management, information regarding how long and how frequently the CPAP was used could be stored on the chip. This information along with the pressure settings at which the apneic episodes were best prevented can be studied from the chip recording. Observe compliance with doctor visits, as scheduled. Do not forget to take your CPAP machine for the visit, as the chip reading could provide a lot of input regarding the management 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.
