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10 Things to Do When Flying with a CPAP Mask

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10 Things to Do When Flying with a CPAP Mask

Those who need a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to fall asleep may feel anxious about taking a trip. It’s true that taking your CPAP mask and machine on the road is much less complicated than you might imagine; with a little bit of planning and the help of the checklist and suggestions provided here. 

You can keep up your CPAP compliance and still have a restful night’s sleep

Here are top things to remember before leaving home with your CPAP masks:

  1. Refresh Your Equipment – Before leaving, be sure that your CPAP mask has all of its worn parts replaced with brand new ones. Replacing worn parts like the tube, cushion, and air filter before leaving for an extended period of time will make maintenance easier and lower the risk of a critical component failing.
  2. You should clean your equipment completely and let it air dry before packaging it away. When not in use, keep your CPAP mask, tubing, and humidifier completely dry to prevent the growth of mould and mildew.

See also: Protecting CPAP Mask from CPAP Rainout

  1. We advise that you check your CPAP mask, machine, tubing, and any other equipment (such as a backup power source) two full weeks before your travel. Check for any deterioration or damaged parts that could cause an inconvenience on your vacation. 
  2. Although bringing a lot of additional supplies can get in the way, you should definitely make room in your suitcase for a spare CPAP mask cushion, some machine filters, and/or an alternative set of headgear just in case something goes wrong. 

Having backup supplies will help you keep your therapy on track in the event that something breaks, gets eaten by your in-laws’ pet, or goes missing.

  1. It is highly recommended that CPAP users should have a copy of their prescription with them when they travel. While it’s highly unlikely you’ll ever use it, having it on hand will make you very happy if the perfect (or, more properly, incorrect) conditions occur. 

You probably won’t need to bring your prescription with you on your trip, but if you need to order any replacement equipment or supplies, you’ll want to have it handy.

  1. You should bring your own water because only distilled water will keep your CPAP machine from getting calcified or mineralized. It’s not a good idea, and depending on where you’re going, it might not even be possible to use tap water in your CPAP machine’s humidifier. 

If you want to feel safe while travelling with your CPAP machine, bring your own supply of distilled water.

  1. Carry Simple Cleaning Tools with You – CPAP wipes are convenient because you don’t have to constantly submerge your equipment in a sink full of hot, soapy water.
  2. Carry an Extra Source of Energy – Although a backup battery for your CPAP machine isn’t typically required, having one can ensure that you can continue your therapy even if you’re in an area where the reliability or accessibility of energy is unknown.
  3. You can do more with DC converters and extension cords by enabling you to use 12V DC outlets, some solar panel alternatives, and CPAP backup batteries like the EXP48 and EXP96 Pro, a DC converter that expands the flexibility of your therapy. 

If you bring an extension cord with you, you won’t have to worry about being restricted by the length of your tubing and power cord, or about finding an available outlet.

  1. Get a Medical Alert Wallet Card – Even if you aren’t going anywhere, it’s a good idea to have a medical alert wallet card in case of an emergency. 

This is especially important for solo travellers. Keep a medical alert card in your wallet so that first responders can learn more about your health and better care for you if you become unresponsive.

For those who need a CPAP mask when flying, here are helpful hints:

Here are some information that is specific to your next flight! With any luck, these eight pointers will make your next flight more bearable while using a continuous positive airway pressure device.

  • Pack Your CPAP Machine Away from the Luggage Check – Your CPAP mask and machine are medical equipment and, as such, cannot be included in the baggage weight limit. You should never be without the device, as its delicate nature necessitates constant monitoring.
  • Invest in a Travel Case Most new CPAP machines now come with a travel case designed specifically for that model. If yours didn’t, you can avoid having your CPAP equipment included as checked luggage by bringing it on the plane in a separate suitcase. 

You’ll be thankful for the extra space in your carry-on, even if it’s just an old duffel bag.

  • If you need to use a CPAP mask and machine during in flight, the TSA allows up to 3.4 ounces of distilled water in carry-on bags. However, the TSA advises that you keep your liquids to “appropriate proportions,” so you should probably restrict the amount of distilled water you pack in your checked bag even though there is technically no limit.
  • Archive Copies of Vital Records Convenient: TSA agents and airline staff have received extensive training to recognize medical equipment, including CPAP machines. Most new CPAP machines are allowed for use on aeroplanes, but having proof of your manufacturer’s FAA certification status is helpful in case any questions or concerns arise. 

If your CPAP mask, machine, or equipment gets damaged in transit, having a copy of your prescription on you can help you get replacements. If you need to replace some supplies or machine components while on the road, having your prescription on hand will be a huge help.

  • Know Your Seating Situation Before Takeoff! SeatGuru, a tool available on TripAdvisor, can help you scope out your plane’s seating situation before you take off. Find out which seats have the most legroom and which have access to power outlets for your electronic devices if you want to use them during flight.
  • Traveling Overseas by Plane? Don’t forget the plug adapter! Modern CPAP machines typically detect and compensate for higher voltage outlets automatically. However, be sure your CPAP machine’s power source can handle at least 220 volts by using a country-specific converter.
  • Make a Reservation 48 Hours in Advance – Even though no domestic flight can legally prevent you from using your CPAP machine, it’s still a good idea to research the airline’s guidelines for doing so. 

For a stress-free flight, be sure to call your airline at least 48 hours before takeoff with any questions or concerns; we’ve included some of the more typical regulations here. 

Note that if you intend to use your CPAP machine during the travel, certain airlines will insist that you bring a battery with a capacity greater than your flight time.

  • Some portable CPAP machines, such the ResMed AirMini and HDM Z2, include waterless humidification are options that can help you conserve room and travel lighter if you don’t want to bring distilled water with you.

Conclusion

To know more about how to manage your CPAP Mask and how to get the best product that will suit your lifestyle, contact sleep specialist at Air Liquide Healthcare today!

Protecting CPAP Mask from CPAP Rainout

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Protecting CPAP Mask from CPAP Rainout

The use of humidification can greatly improve the user’s comfort when wearing a CPAP machine, but it also increases the risk of condensation in the hose and water in the mask. When using a heated humidifier, it is not uncommon for water to leak through the CPAP mask and hose, a phenomenon known as CPAP rainout.

Heated humidification helps alleviate dryness and improve compliance for CPAP mask users who suffer from nasal congestion, dry nasal passages, sore throats, and nosebleeds.

With an understanding of CPAP rainout and the steps to take to reduce it, those who suffer from sleep apnea can have a better night’s sleep. It’s unpleasant to struggle with moisture in your CPAP mask or equipment, but there are things you may try and lifestyle adjustments you can make to alleviate the problem. 

Keep reading for loads of useful ideas to prevent condensation in CPAP masks if you wake up with water in them.

Protecting CPAP Mask from CPAP Rainout

What Exactly Is CPAP Rainout, and What Causes It?

When moisture enters a cold tube, condensation forms and causes the CPAP to “rain out.” Then, a few waters drop form and splash against your face, rousing you from sleep. You can compare the accumulation of water in your CPAP tubing to the condensation that forms on an old window in a warm room on a cold day or on a chilled can of pop left in the sun on a hot day.

When the air in your CPAP hose cools down, rainout occurs. Condensation is more likely to form if the humidifier’s air is warmer or if your bedroom is cooler. You are nearly certain to experience CPAP rainout if you use the humidifier at its maximum setting. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to prevent or lessen the severity of CPAP rainout.

Is there a way to keep moisture out of the CPAP mask and hose?

To prevent CPAP rainout, it’s essential to keep the tubing’s inside and exterior temperatures as similar as possible. Water buildup in the CPAP hose can be avoided by using a hose cover or adjusting the humidifier settings.

Antidotes for CPAP Rainout

If your CPAP machine or tubing makes noises during the night, you may wake up feeling exhausted even if you get a full night’s rest. Those who suffer from sleep apnea should take measures to ensure they have the best night’s sleep possible, which includes avoiding rainout.

If you want to sleep better tonight, try these six effective strategies:

Use a Heated CPAP Tube

The heated tubing of a CPAP system is designed to maintain the air temperature constant from the humidifier to the mask, so minimising the risk of condensation and dripping that can occur otherwise.

Heated tubing is an option for many well-known CPAP machines, and many manufacturers provide it. For example, the ClimateLineAir Heated Tube is available for the AirSense 10 and AirCurve 10 machines, and the Heated Tube is available for any DreamStation machine. 

The non-condensing ClimateLineAir CPAP hose is one of the best solutions because it limits rainout and allows freedom of movement during sleep.

Insulate the Air in Your Hose by Wrapping It

Wrapping your CPAP hose in a tube cover is another great way to prevent rainout due to your bedroom’s temperature. To keep the hose even warmer, you can run it underneath your sheets. Having the proper CPAP hose attachments can do a lot to keep you from experiencing CPAP rainout and can aid in your ability to maintain sleep.

Modify the Humidifier’s Settings 

Getting your CPAP humidifier set up correctly might be a game changer. In most cases, a humidity level of three is ideal for CPAP devices. Adjusting the CPAP settings in 0.5 increments can help with rainout concerns, but you should see your doctor before making any changes. 

You should consult your equipment provider to determine the optimal humidifier temperature before beginning CPAP therapy.

Change Your CPAP Machine’s Location

Put gravity to good use. Maintain a dry mask by positioning your CPAP machine below your bed. You should consider relocating your CPAP machine from your nightstand to a lower shelf, or even the floor. If condensation does occur, any resulting droplets will be reabsorbed by the humidifier rather than splashing your face.

Tweak the Room Temperature 

As was previously discussed, CPAP rainout is caused by a temperature disparity between the air in your tubing and your bedroom. Condensation in your tubing is more likely to occur if you maintain your bedroom at an extremely low temperature at night. 

This is a simple solution, however some individuals sleep better in cooler environments, so you can try adjusting the humidity instead.

Try to Find Equipment that Can Make Changes on Its Own

Your CPAP mask will be replaced after 90 days, and your machine every 5 years, by most insurance providers. Five years is a long time in the world of sleep apnea, but a lot may happen in that time, including advancements in technology and the introduction of smart features.

For example, ResMed’s S9 and Air Solutions CPAP machines have humidity settings that can be adjusted automatically to keep you comfortable. There is a particular climate control feature that keeps tabs on the air temperature within your mask and how it compares to the outside air. 

It automatically changes the humidifier and tube levels to maintain a comfortable temperature, reducing the likelihood of CPAP rainout, as needed.

Conclusion 

If you suffer from sleep apnea, getting a good night’s rest might be difficult even with treatment (such as a CPAP mask and machine). Consistency is key because sleep apnea can cause major consequences if left untreated, despite the fact that some people experience bloating and others have skin irritation. 

We encourage you to consult our CPAP solutions guide if you are still experiencing difficulties with your CPAP mask, machine, or humidifier.

Many persons who suffer from sleep apnea argue that the potential advantages of using moisture in conjunction with their CPAP mask/ equipment exceed the risks of CPAP rainout, especially considering the fact that there are ways to lessen the likelihood of nighttime disturbances.

More to read: 10 Things to Do When Flying with a CPAP Mask

Can any Mask Fit All CPAP Machines?

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Can any Mask Fit All CPAP Machines?

Have you been given a diagnosis of sleep apnea in the recent past? You might have been using a CPAP for a while now, and all you need is some additional information on the masks that are compatible with CPAP machines. Maybe you fall somewhere in the middle and are just starting to look into which CPAP machine would be the most suitable for your way of living.

Finding the appropriate CPAP mask for your requirements is a significant endeavor that requires some amount of time, regardless of the specifics of your situation. Even while it may take some trial and error to determine which CPAP mask is most suited to your particular facial structure, the procedure of locating a mask that is compatible with your machine is very simple.

Let’s find out if any CPAP masks may be used with any machine by investigating this.

Do All CPAP Masks Fit All Machines?

Yes, CPAP masks are compatible with all CPAP machines, with the exception of the ResMed AirMini. The ResMed AirPlus is not compatible with all CPAP masks. It is possible to use any variety of CPAP machine with any type of CPAP mask. This indicates that you have the ability to experiment with a variety of CPAP machines and masks in order to locate the one that is the most suitable for the way you live your life.

However, in order for your new mask to be compatible with the equipment you already have, there are some adjustments that need to be made to the connecting equipment for the mask.

Connecting Your CPAP Mask

For maximum CPAP mask compatibility, it is possible that you will need to make some connection adjustments in order to use your new mask with your existing equipment.

Make sure your adapter is working properly 

The adapter as well as the L-shaped elbow that is used to link the tubing to the mask are both considered to be a component of the mask itself. Some masks come equipped with quick-release mechanisms, which make it simple to remove the mask from the tube at the end of the day. 

When you switch out your gear, if the elbow or adapter from the prior mask is still lodged inside the tubing, your new mask won’t be able to connect to the tubing and work properly. Put the old mask back on and reattach it to the old elbow or adapter so that you will have the leverage necessary to pull it out and then wiggle the tubing back and forth to remove the elbow. Click here to read about What Undiagnosed Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Women Can Cause.

Cut the shorter section of tubing 

You might have a shorter tube section that connects to the longer CPAP tubing, but this will depend on the configuration that you select. Because this is also a component of the previous mask, you will need to take it off before you can connect the new one. An adapter is what connects this small tube to the larger one. When you replace your mask, carefully pull the adapter out of the longer tube, and the shorter tube will follow after it. This will allow you to remove both.

While all masks can be used with any machine (with the exception of the AirMini), not all accessories are suitable for use with each and every type of tubing. Although they are compatible with ordinary tubing and all oxygen adapters attach between the mask and the tubing, CPAP users who require heated tubing will need a customized adapter. All oxygen adapters attach between the mask and the tubing.

Are there any Exceptions?

The ResMed AirMini CPAP machine is one of a kind since, traditionally, it could only be used with the company’s proprietary CPAP masks. This portable CPAP machine is designed to be extremely lightweight and has a specialized humidification technology that works in conjunction with its nasal masks. 

As a result, people who used the ResMed AirMini had to select one of the following masks in the past: the AirFit P10, the AirFit N20, the AirFit F20, or the AirFit F30. However, this is no longer the case.

The ZephAir AirMini Universal CPAP Adapter is a device that enables a universal connection to be made between the AirMini machine and any variety of CPAP masks. Check out adaptors on sale on Air Liquide Healthcare website if the ResMed mask selections aren’t quite what you’re looking for and you’d rather use a different kind of mask. You will be able to carry your therapy with you everywhere you go if you have the AirMini Adapter because it will allow you to connect your preferred mask to this small CPAP machine. You can also read about Development and Evaluation of an Ultrasonic Humidifier to Control Humidity in a Cold Storage Room for Postharvest Quality Management of Dates by visiting https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8145257/

Summary

Finding a CPAP mask that is suitable for your requirements can be a time-consuming procedure; however, one thing you do not have to be concerned about is whether or not a particular type of mask is compatible only with a particular type of CPAP machine. Every single CPAP mask is suitable for use with every single CPAP machine, with the exception of the ResMed AirMini without the adapter. Despite the fact that masks are, for the most part, interchangeable, certain components of each mask need to be customized in order to accept additional components, such as heated tubing.

Since you no longer have to be concerned about CPAP mask compatibility, you are free to experiment with any of the available mask options in order to find the one that best meets your requirements. There is a wide variety of options available for you to select from, as well as a number of factors that should be taken into consideration, such as whether you breathe through your mouth, nose, or both when you are asleep, the degree to which each mask conforms to your individual facial structure, and the way in which you position yourself while you are sleeping.

Why You Need to Invest in a Lumin Cleaner for Your CPAP Equipment

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Why You Need to Invest in a Lumin Cleaner for Your CPAP Equipment

Not only can a Lumin cleaner easily remove 99.9% of hazardous bacteria, viruses, mold, and fungus on your CPAP mask and other attachments, but it also employs UV rays in a safe manner to complete the task in only 5 minutes without introducing harmful ozone gas or any other poisonous chemicals. One of the healthiest options available for disinfecting CPAP accessories is the Lumin.

Why Should I Use Lumin Cleaner?

In these anxious times, it is reassuring to have an easy, at-home method for sanitizing frequently touched items like cell phones, keys, pens, small toys, and the list goes on and on. Because it is so safe and effective, it can also be used on other small items. In addition, it can be used on other small items. And most recently, the authorities in Australia have given their blessing for it to be used as a cleaning agent.

While the majority of us are still sensing the long-lasting impact from the COVID-19 pandemic era in our surroundings. Many have gotten accustomed to wearing masks, and for some people doing so has developed into an everyday practise. In certain areas, it is still necessary for people to have it on them anytime they venture out into public or make an effort to engage in social activity with other people in a public setting. Because the virus has influenced public mask usage, many people are forced to wear masks because they have no other option. Visit http://breastcancerchallenges.com/can-any-mask-fit-all-cpap-machines/ to read about Can any Mask Fit All CPAP Machines?

However, the expense and environmental damage caused by throwing away an endless supply of disposable masks is high. This is one of the negative impacts of how the COVID-19 virus has influenced public mask usage. Right now, people all throughout the world have the opportunity to lessen the impact that trash disposable masks have on the environment by using Lumin.

According to a report, the Lumin LM3000 has been given permission to be used under an Emergency Use Authorization for the purpose of reducing the bioburden of 3M model 1860 N95 respirators exclusively for single-user reuse by healthcare personnel in order to protect them from being exposed to pathogenic biological airborne matters. The use of Lumin cleaner for CPAP mask is also on the rise in Australia and other parts of the world. The effective of the device makes a good and safe option for CPAP masks cleaning without stress. For those who can afford it, it is said to be the best viable option for CPAP masks and machine cleaning.

Consequently, What Does This Imply?

In Simple language, this indicates that the go-ahead signal has been granted to healthcare personnel who are using the Lumin to zap harmful bugs so that they may re-wear their masks instead of throwing them away after a single usage. The fact that the Lumin has been given permission for use in homes by people who only use it sometimes is excellent news. This implies that there is a high level of trust that the Lumin can offer safe irradiation against pathogens for everything that may be stored in its bin.

Specific Information Regarding the Lumin Cleaner

When compared to another source of cleaning agents or devices, Lumin’s irradiance output in a single 5-minute cycle is over 1,100 mJ/cm2, which is significantly higher. According to the findings of a research that was commissioned by a laboratory, “taking into consideration the cytotoxicity and neutralization control results, the evaluated test device demonstrated an average 3.25 Log10 reduction in viral titer,” which translates to an outstanding reduction of up to 99.94% degree.

It’s not just for cleaning CPAP masks or other accessories of CPAP machines.

The fact that the machine can be used to sanitize a wide variety of household items that are not associated with CPAP mask use has been confirmed. These developments are exciting developments, but all they do is validate what Lumin owners have known all along. It has a footprint that is tiny enough to fit on a bedside table, kitchen counter, or office desk, which makes it an extremely practical piece of furniture. You can also read about Essential Medical Equipment Payment by clicking here.

In plain terms, what is being implied here is that Lumin cleaner used for CPAP masks is a versatile tool, if you can get one, its use will not just be limited to CPAP mask cleaner activity but it will also be valuable in cleaner several wide ranges of the device and things in your home, even you disposable re-usable nose masks. 

Because it does not utilize any type of chemicals, gases, or liquids, but rather a closed chamber that is flooded with UV-C light, it is completely safe to use on any material that can fit within – it does not matter if it is silicone, plastic, metal, or fabric (or a medical grade respirator mask)!

Is Lumin Cleaner a brand that Should be recommended for CPAP Masks?

Of course, cleaning CPAP attachments was the initial intention for Lumin, and there’s a good reason why it’s become so popular: it does an excellent job. When you consider the amount of time you spent wiping, washing, rinsing, and drying (or the amount of time you should have spent if you’ve become lazy), the Lumin starts to look very appealing: all you have to do is pop your CPAP mask or water chamber into the bin, push a single button to start the 5-minute cycle, and then you’re good to go!

It is by far the easiest method to maintain your CPAP masks free from hazardous germs and viruses; the fact that it does the same fantastic job on all of your other little things, especially in these trying days brought on by the pandemic, is a terrific added advantage!

Do you want further details on the Lumin cleaner for CPAP masks? Please go to www.sleepsolutionsaustralia.com for more information.

What Undiagnosed Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Women Can Cause

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What Undiagnosed Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Women Can Cause

How does sleep apnea manifest?

Have you seen a male adult, middle-aged, rather stocky, looking fatigued, and snoring like a train? Even while that describes a lot of people who suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), it’s not the only possible profile. A variety of health issues can cause OSA, and it can affect anyone of any age, size, or sex.

In women, It Is Frequently Misdiagnosed

Women may experience milder manifestations of OSA-related symptoms than males, but research suggests the effects are just as bad, if not worse, for women. It is estimated that males are twice as likely to develop sleep apnea as women, although women are diagnosed with the disorder eight times as often. It has been hypothesized that this occurs because female symptoms are often overlooked since they deviate from the conventional masculine profile.

The following discussion will examine the underdiagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea in women and the factors that contribute to this problem.

How does OSA manifest itself differently in females?

Several variables, common to both sexes, contribute to obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the soft tissues at the back of the throat relax and descend during sleep, closing the upper airway. Because of this, breathing stops, and the brain sends a signal to the body to gradually awaken so that the airway may be reopened. OSA sufferers may not be aware of these brief awakenings, but they occur often during the night, sometimes as often as every hour. This causes them to not only lose sleep but also to have trouble progressing into deeper stages of sleep, leading to a sluggish morning.

Women with OSA are less likely to report symptoms such as daytime tiredness or difficulty concentrating than males are. Women, for whatever reason, are less likely to report feeling “tired” than men are; but, when the situation is severe, both sexes tend to use the same adjectives, “fatigued” and “exhausted.” Fatigue is a common symptom of sleep apnea, but doctors often overlook it in women since they don’t meet the conventional profile for OSA (overweight, masculine, loud snoring, etc.).

Why do so few doctors check for OSA while examining a female patient?

As with the rest of us, doctors might be influenced by their own stereotypes about what a patient should look like when they have this ailment. When a guy matches the description and complains of associated symptoms, a sleep study is commonly performed, but when a woman complains of the same symptoms, they may be ignored or attributed to something else.

Several Illustrations Could Be:

  • Symptoms that women do report to their physicians are often shared with other illnesses. Menopause, depression, sleeplessness, and other problems are commonly blamed for unpleasant symptoms including headache, weariness, loss of energy, and moodiness.
  • Women are more likely to say they snore less than males or not at all when asked about this issue. Furthermore, men tend to be less aware of their snoring spouses than women. A common reason males give for doing a sleep study is that “my wife feels I snore too much,” whereas women are less likely to say the same thing.
  • The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) is often lower in women than in males, indicating that apnea occurrences are mild yet prevalent. This suggests that they (or their partners) are experiencing fewer breathing disruptions each hour. Click here to read more about sleeping apnea.

Missing something doesn’t imply it has no significance.

While women may experience milder OSA symptoms than males, research suggests the consequences are just as serious, if not worse. The usual autonomic responses that regulate things like blood pressure, heart rate, and sweating are diminished in patients with OSA, according to a 2013 UCLA research, and this is especially true for women. Multiple tests were performed on men and women diagnosed with OSA, and the results were alarming.

These studies reveal that sleep apnea has a more severe impact on women than on males, at least in terms of heart rate. Heart disease symptoms and other negative outcomes from inadequate adaptation to normal physical demands may be more common in women as a result of this. Possible brain and organ damage can be prevented with early diagnosis and treatment. You can also read about Why You Need to Invest in a Lumin Cleaner for Your CPAP Equipment by visiting http://breastcancerchallenges.com/why-you-need-to-invest-in-a-lumin-cleaner-for-your-cpap-equipment/

The Pitfalls to Avoid

Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are commonly ignored, so paying attention to them is crucial if you want to avoid developing serious health problems in the future. Some of the symptoms you could experience could be due to sleep apnea:

Even after a full night’s sleep, you may still feel exhausted because: 

  • Your breathing stops and begins during the night; 
  • Your body keeps waking up from deep sleep (noticed by a partner, perhaps)
  • You have low energy or daytime fatigue; 
  • You get frequent morning headaches; 
  • You’ve been told you have high blood pressure or fibromyalgia; 
  • You’ve been told you snore; 
  • You wake up frequently during the night (to use the washroom, for example – under normal conditions, you shouldn’t need to get up much during the night);

The good news is that OSA can be efficiently treated with CPAP, despite the fact that it can be incapacitating and carries risks of more hazardous repercussions for general health. Don’t be shy about reaching out to us for help if you think you might have OSA.

Factors that Put Women at Risk

If you have any of the risk factors for sleep apnea, even if you don’t currently have OSA or experience OSA symptoms, it’s important to keep a close eye on your sleep and get treatment right away if you develop any of the condition’s tell-tale signs. Health problems caused by OSA might be made worse by other circumstances.

Watch out for these risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea: 

  • Being overweight; women who are obese between the ages of 50 and 70 have a 31% higher risk of developing OSA.
  • Getting to be a specific age, has a 14% increased risk of OSA among women between the ages of 55 and 70.
  • The risk of having OSA increases during pregnancy, and it can have serious consequences if it goes untreated.
  • Sleep apnea can be brought on by menopause, and it’s strongly linked to hypertension, diabetes, and asthma. The risk of getting OSA is as high as 70% in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

A relationship between OSA and chronic congestion exists for all kinds of reasons.

You should schedule an appointment for an evaluation if you have any suspicions that you may be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.

Discussing Breast Cancer with Others Could Save Someone’s Li

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Discussing Breast Cancer with Others Could Save Someone’s Li

(ARA) – Breast cancer is the leading cause of death for women ages 40 to 59. This year alone, more than 200,000 women will be diagnosed with the disease. Another 40,000 will die from it. Even though early detection is critical to survival and every woman is at risk for developing the disease, new research shows the vast majority of women do not discuss this issue with each other.

According to a recent survey commissioned by WHEATABLES Crackers and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, there is a startling lack of dialogue among women about breast cancer risk and the importance of early detection. Sixty-five percent of women report they never or infrequently discuss breast cancer risk even though almost half report having a close personal experience (self, family or close friend diagnosed) with the disease. Seventy-three percent of mothers surveyed reported they never or hardly ever discuss breast cancer, breast self-exams or mammograms with their daughters or granddaughters and 67 percent of the women surveyed said the same about their mothers or stepmothers.

“These findings are astounding particularly because one in eight women are expected to develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Communication and conversation are critical to understanding the importance of early detection and adopting positive breast health practices,” said Susan Braun, president and CEO of the Komen Foundation.

In response, WHEATABLES Crackers and the Komen Foundation have launched a public education initiative to encourage women to talk about breast cancer. Called “Talk About Breast Cancer – It’s a Conversation Worth Having,” the initiative is designed to help women — and those who love them — get the conversation going.

Special WHEATABLES Crackers packaging carries pink Ribbons for Life and conversation starter tips, including:

  • Make a monthly calendar note to call your mother, aunt, sister or daughter with a reminder to conduct a breast self-exam. * Enclose a note and a pink ribbon in birthday cards to female friends 40 years of age or older, reminding them to have a mammogram.
  • Ask your doctor about breast health activities at every appointment. Don’t wait for the doctor to ask you.
  • Send a care package with how-to tips to young women at college or away from home; once a woman turns 20, she should begin conducting monthly breast self-exams and have a doctor or nurse examine her breasts every three years.
  • Develop a “buddy” system with friends. Ask them to remind you regularly about breast health activities and do the same for them.
  • Share a cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa and breast cancer facts with a friend: Breast cancer is the number one killer of women between the ages of 40 and 59; the majority of women who develop breast cancer had no family history of the disease; if breast cancer is detected early, a woman’s chances of survival improve significantly.

“Regular discussions that encourage breast health activities like monthly breast self-exams, annual clinical breast exams, and mammograms can make a very real difference,” said Jenny Enochson, spokesperson for WHEATABLES Crackers. “That’s why we’re so committed to getting the conversation going.”

WHEATABLES Crackers will donate $5.00 to the Komen Foundation for every five ribbons clipped from its special packaging and sent in by customers. For more information about the campaign, log onto www.ribbonsforlife.com.

Of Lumps, Bumps, And Breast Cancer

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Of Lumps, Bumps, And Breast Cancer

You feel a mild soreness in the breast so you checked for lumps. You felt a little bump. The next best step is to consult a doctor, you might have breast cancer. Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that starts from the cells of the breast. Breast cancer occurs mainly in women but this does not mean that men are safe from this disease.

A woman’s breast is made up of lobules, which are glands that make the milk; ducts, which connect lobules to the nipples; fat and connective tissues; blood vessels; and lymph vessels. Most breast cancers begin in the ducts. It may also begin in the lobules and then spread to other tissues.

When one feels a lump in the breast, there is really no virtual worry because most lumps are benign which means that they are not cancerous. In fact, benign breast tumors are abnormal growths but do not really pose threats because they do not spread outside of the breast. However, some benign lumps increase the risk in having breast cancer.

Then there are lumps that are not really tumors at all which are often caused by fibrocystic changes — cysts are fluid-filled sacs while fibrosis is the formation of scar-like tissue. These changes can cause swelling of the breasts resulting to being lumpy and sometimes a fluid discharge from the nipples.

Of Lumps, Bumps, And Breast Cancer

There are different types of breast cancer and knowing them will greatly help in assessing the disease.

Carcinoma in situ is a term used for early stage of breast cancer where the cancer cells are still confined to the place where it started. In particular, the cancer cells are confined in the lobules or the ducts, depending on where it started. The cancer cells have not gone into the fatty tissues in the breast nor spread to other organs of the body.

Ductal carcinoma in situ is the most common type of noninvasive breast cancer. Similar with Carcinoma in situ, the cancer cells have spread through the walls of the duct into the fatty tissue of the breasts. Almost all women with breast cancer at this stage can be cured and the best way to find is through the use of mammogram.

Lobular carcinoma in situ is the condition which begins in the milk-making glands but does not go through the walls of the lobules. This is not a true cancer but this can increase the risk of a woman to have breast cancer later. For this very reason, it is of utmost importance for women with this type of condition to follow the guidelines for breast cancer.

Infiltrating (or invasive) ductal carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that starts in the milk passage, breaks through the duct walls, invades the fatty tissue of the breast then spread to other parts of the body. This is the most common type of breast cancer.

Infiltrating lobular carcinoma starts in the milk glands then travel to the other parts of the body.

As of now, there is no exact cause for breast cancer but there are certain factors that are linked to the disease. Some factors that cannot be controlled are age, gender, family history, personal history of breast cancer, and race. Factors such as not having children, birth control pills, diet, exercise, and alcohol are some of the factors that can be controlled which may lessen or heighten the risk of a woman to have breast cancer.

There are several tests that may confirm and disconfirm if you suspect breast cancer such as imaging tests which includes mammography, breast ultrasound, and ductogram and biopsy which includes fine needle aspiration biopsy, stereotactic core needle biopsy, and surgical biopsy.

Hormone Replacement Therapy: Breast Cancer Risk In Perspective

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Hormone Replacement Therapy: Breast Cancer Risk In Perspective

Many women have concluded that recent study results show that hormone replacement therapy increases breast cancer risk. A closer look at this study shows that the increase in risk was far less than half a per cent a year and may not be due to hormone
Janet M., a fifties-something woman, entered my office and said as she sat down, “I’ve read that if I take hormones I’ll increase my breast cancer risk. I’m going crazy without sleep and with these mood swings, but I don’t want to increase my breast cancer risk by taking hormones.”

Like many women, Janet heard that a recent study, the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), definitively showed that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) at menopause increases breast cancer risk. Janet, like most people who heard about this study, didn’t realize that the WHI study found no statistically significant increase in breast cancer risk to women who took HRT.

When differences are not significant, an increase in risk may well be due to other factors, not the one being studied, such as HRT use. In this, as in the reporting of many studies, the emphasis was on the increase in risk, not whether it was likely to be due to the agent being studied or to its size.

In addition to statistical significance, the actual size of a risk is important in any woman’s decision making process. In this case the risk was exceedingly small – only 8 in 10,000 women a year – which is 0.08% or eight hundredths of one per cent! Janet was amazed to learn the actual size of the increase, and said, “You mean I was getting all concerned for a risk that small!”

“And,” I pointed out, “even this very small difference in risk may not be due to hormone use.” I explained that breast cancers take an average of eight years to reach about half an inch in size. This means that breast cancers starting in the first year of the study would not be detected for eight or more years. The study followed women for only about five years, so all or most of the breast cancers found during the study were probably present in an undetected state before the study began.

Janet asked if HRT use might have caused some breast cancers to grow more rapidly and therefore be detected sooner than eight years. This is unlikely. A number of studies find that breast cancers in women who were using HRT were not larger and were not dividing more rapidly than breast cancers in non hormone users. Also, breast cancers grow more slowly in older women. The average age in this study was 63, so breast cancers in this group would tend to grow more slowly and so take even longer than the eight year average to be detected.

Women in the WHI study used a particular type of hormone called Prempro. The results of this study therefore do not apply to other, newer approaches in which more natural hormones are used and a woman’s menstrual cycle is more closely approximated.

Janet was surprised to learn that in many studies women who use HRT do not have an increase in breast cancer risk compared to women who don’t use hormones, even when hormones are used for twenty years. Also, in another large study in which some women were assigned to take Prempro and others not, women who used Prempro had no significant increase in breast cancer risk.

As Janet left, she said, “I can see now that when I hear about a study I need to know how big a risk is, and not just that it is increased. I’ll also ask how long a study it was. This discussion has given me a whole different perspective.”

To learn more about commonsense tools for assessing breast and other cancer risks, attend a free telephone conference on Wednesday, January 22nd at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, 6:00 p.m. Mountain Time, 7:00 p.m. Central Time and 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. To register for this unique TeleForum or to learn more about it, send an E-mail to [email protected] with “Cancer Risk TeleForum” in the subject line. Please include your name, E-mail address, and city and state in the body of the E-mail. Occupation or profession is optional, but it would be helpful to us. We will send a confirmation, including the number to call for this unique, free telephone conference.

You may also be interested in Dr. Kelly’s latest book, Assess Your True Risk of Breast Cancer. To learn more about this book, which helps women to manage their breast cancer risk and make decisions about genetic testing, see Dr. Kelly’s website: www.ptkelly.com.

Walk to beat breast cancer

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Walk to beat breast cancer

WOMEN with breast cancer who walk at least an hour a week have a better chance of beating the disease than those who don’t exercise at all, researchers said. “It is well established that exercise plays an important role in preventing many diseases, including breast cancer,” said lead researcher Michelle Holmes of Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

“However, we found that women who are physically active after breast cancer diagnosis may lower their risk of death from breast cancer and cancer recurrence.” Even walking an hour a week lifted survival rates but exercising more than five hours a week did not confer any added survival benefit. The study noted discouraging estimates that women with breast cancer tend to decrease their levels of physical activity by two hours a week and those who are obese reduce activity even more.

A Tool for Early Breast Cancer Screening

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A Tool for Early Breast Cancer Screening

Who isn’t familiar with the expression, “early detection is the best prevention?” We hear this term throughout the year and most everyone is familiar with this “catch phrase” as it relates to breast cancer. Obviously, a woman’s chance for survival improves when a cancer is found early. We hear that simple rhyming statement but are women really offered early detection?

Our “gold standard” for breast cancer screening is mammography, clinical breast exam and self-breast exam. Other techniques are used but ALL current technologies examine structure; something is formed and large enough to be seen or felt. However, it is well-documented that a mass that is detected by mammography has been growing for 8-10 years before it was detected. Is this early detection?

There exists a technology that can detect an issue YEARS before a tumor can be seen on X-ray or palpated during an exam and truly offers early detection. This technology has been approved by the FDA as an adjunctive screening tool since 1982 and offers NO RADIATION, NO COMPRESSION AND NO PAIN. For women who are searching for early breast cancer detection, digital infrared thermal imaging (DITI) may be of interest.

Historically, DITI fell out of favor shortly after its initial debut in the early 80s. When DITI was first introduced, strict protocols and trained technicians did not exist. Shortly after its initial beginnings, DITI fell out of favor as a diagnostic tool in the medical community.

There are now very strict protocols both for testing and interpreting. Perhaps due to these guidelines, thermography (as with all digital technology) has exploded in its technique and capabilities. Thermal cameras detect heat emitted from the body and display it as a picture on a computer monitor. These images are unique to the person and remain stable over time. It is because of these characteristics that thermal imaging is a valuable and effective screening tool. Tumors or other breast diseases measures warmer than surrounding tissue and can thereby alert a physician to a problem before a tumor is actually palpable.

Medical doctors who interpret the breast scans are board certified thermologists. Thermography is not limited by breast density and is ideal for women who have had cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, women who refuse mammography, or women who want clinical correlation for an already existing issue. Thermography, because it analyzes a developing process, may identify a problem several years before mammography. As we all know, early detection is important to survival.

DITI has an average sensitivity and specificity of 90%. An abnormal thermogram carries a 10x greater risk for cancer. A persistent abnormal thermogram carries a 22x greater risk for cancer. Thermography, as well as mammography is a personal choice for women. This decision ideally should be made in collaboration between you and your physician. However, thermography does not require a physician’s order.

Thermographic screening is not covered by most insurance companies but is surprisingly affordable for most people. For more information or to find a certified clinic in your area, go to www.proactivehealthonline.com.