Does CPAP help? A study shows patients treated by sleep specialists and in accredited centers are twice as likely to succeed. Learn why expert care improves sleep apnea treatment outcomes.
Sleep Apnea Treatment: The Power of Professional Care
New research reveals a key insight: receiving treatment from board-certified sleep specialists at accredited facilities significantly improves outcomes for sleep apnea. Millions of Americans suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep. Left untreated, it raises the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and other health issues. Snoring is often a telltale sign.
Why Choosing a Sleep Expert Matters
In this study, researchers tracked 502 patients using positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy after treatment at four centers—two accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and two without accreditation. The results were clear: patients at accredited centers were twice as likely to stick with their CPAP therapy
The Advantages of Accredited Sleep Centers
Beyond adherence, patients also reported greater satisfaction when treated at accredited sleep centers. What makes them stand out?
- Specialized Teams: Sleep centers employ professionals trained in sleep medicine, including board-certified physicians.
- Evidence-Based Protocols: They follow standards from the AASM using proven diagnostic tools and therapies.
- Comprehensive Diagnostics: They offer in-lab and at-home sleep studies for precise diagnoses.
- Dedicated PAP Support: Help with mask fitting, pressure settings, telemedicine, and advanced therapies like upper airway stimulation.
Understanding CPAP and the Titration Study
CPAP involves wearing a mask that blows air through your airway to prevent interruptions in breathing. A CPAP titration study is used to find your ideal pressure, usually in a sleep center. This personalization significantly improves long-term success with therapy.
Conclusion
Partnering with a certified sleep expert at an AASM-accredited center improves your chances of success with CPAP therapy. It also reduces the risks linked to untreated sleep disorders and improves your long-term health and energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will CPAP therapy work for me?
Yes. CPAP is highly effective for obstructive sleep apnea. Success depends on using the right mask and pressure—often determined by a CPAP titration study. Specialists may recommend oral appliances or alternative therapies as well.
What’s the difference between a sleep center and a general facility?
Accredited sleep centers specialize in comprehensive diagnosis and treatment under sleep medicine specialists. They offer studies like polysomnography and manage therapies such as CPAP, BiPAP, or oral appliances all in one place.
Sources
- American Academy of Sleep Medicine: https://aasm.org/accreditation/
- Sleep Foundation – CPAP Overview: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/cpap
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-apnea
