Sleep apnea

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Sleep apnea treatment is of the utmost importance: experiencing a comfortable and restorative sleep will relieve you of those symptoms that are detrimental to your general good health. With Médicus’ respiratory therapy services, you will benefit from the best treatment possible.

Our team of professionals implements a detailed treatment plan with proven effectiveness. The key to its success: our monitoring approach. At Médicus, the comfort and well-being of our patients is our priority. That’s why we make sure, with the help of personalized and frequent follow-ups, that your treatment plan meets the efficiency goals and that you are totally satisfied with it.

All of our respiratory therapists have received Accreditation Canada’s Basic Certification to provide professional, high quality service.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS) is characterized by a complete stoppage (apnea) or a reduction (hypopnea) of the respiratory flow for at least 10 seconds. This disorder is considered very disabling and can lead to many health problems.

Sleep apnea is almost as common as asthma. 26% of Canadians aged 18 and older are at a high risk of suffering from sleep apnea. Moreover, it is estimated that there are about 85% of people who suffer from it and who are still undiagnosed.

Who can get sleep apnea?

Both men and women can be affected by this problem. The syndrome is also often under-diagnosed in women. And only 2 to 3% of children may also be affected by sleep apnea.

Most of these symptoms, and not each taken separately, is an indicator of the presence of sleep apnea syndrome. It is important to consult a doctor if you think you have trouble sleeping.

The combination of many of these symptoms, and not each of them separately, is an indicator of the presence of sleep apnea syndrome. It is important to consult a doctor if you think you have trouble sleeping.

Sleep apnea displays many symptoms, such as:

Repeated awakenings during the night

Hypersomnia during the day

Fatigue and lack of energy

Decreased libido and sexual impotence

Mood swings and irritability

Headaches

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respiratory therapist now!

Book an appointment online 1-866-525-3757

The Médicus sleep solution

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOLLOWING DIAGNOSIS

Following a diagnosis by a general practitioner or a pulmonologist, make an appointment with one of our respiratory therapists to determine the treatment best suited to your needs.

EQUIPMENT PURCHASE OR RENTAL

During your first appointment, the respiratory therapist will take the time to explain the wide range of products offered, at the cutting edge of technology: CPAP devices (CPAP), masks and accessories.

THERAPEUTIC TRIAL

In the comfort of your home, we invite you to take the therapeutic test on the very first night. This is accompanied by a monthly follow-up with the respiratory therapist in order to answer your questions and to ensure the treatment is adequate.

ANNUAL MONITORING

Once the therapeutic trial period is over, rigorous annual follow-up is conducted in order to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and to make any necessary adjustments.

How is sleep apnea treated?

Once sleep apnea is diagnosed, our respiratory therapists will discuss with you the different ways to reduce or even eliminate your symptoms. Some changes in health practices can be beneficial, as is a modification of the posture during sleep. However, the treatment of choice remains the use of CPAP device.

The CPAP device is a small compressor. Modern devices are very quiet, and include a mask adjusted to the contours of your face and connected to the device by a tube. When worn, the released pressure maintains the upper airways open during all phases of the sleep cycle. This helps to control snoring and apnea. There is also an increase in the oxygen level in the blood, which is necessary for the cognitive restoration process. The result: a restful sleep.

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Frequently asked questions

Absolutely! A CPAP device can also be transported anywhere in the world, as additional hand luggage at no cost, because it is considered medical equipment. Make sure you have the kit delivered by your respiratory therapist in your device’s bag. It contains the necessary information for customs officers in the event they request it.

If you are traveling to a country with a different electrical voltage than Canada, be aware that your CPAP is equipped with a current transformer. You do not have to connect a transformer when you plug in your device.

What’s more, if you are a camping or outdoor enthusiast, there are several possibilities available to you to get a night’s restful sleep in the great outdoors. Ask your respiratory therapist for more information.

Your mask may be adjusted too tightly or be the inappropriate size;
Nose pads may reduce the risk of injury;
Use an antibiotic cream in the morning and/or cornstarch before putting on your mask in the evening to prevent silicone from rubbing against your skin;
Clean your mask thoroughly in the morning to prevent it from slipping on your skin because of sebum accumulation.

You should not snore while using the CPAP. The noises often come from the mouth that opens and not snoring. Otherwise:

Contact your doctor to verify and/or adjust the pressure level;
Increase the humidity of your device;
Contact your respiratory therapist to analyze your data. A different type of mask might be necessary.

If possible, changing the mask model can be a solution. Otherwise, the only solution is to trim your facial hair or remove it completely.

Inspect your mask for stiffness, cracks or tears;
Since masks are disposable, annual replacement is required to maintain its seal when it shows signs of wear;
Microbes settle in the silicone of your mask after 6 months of use even if you clean it regularly. Plan for an annual mask replacement.

There is an adjustment period with the therapy. Use the “ramp” if it is adjusted on your device;
Wear the device during the day, while watching TV for example, to get your body used to this new way of breathing;
Wear it sitting down to start, then when you’re feeling comfortable, you can lie down.

The important thing is to use the device every night, even if it is for a short period. Your body will gradually get used to it. Give yourself some time!

Yes. In the event of surgery, it is important to inform the surgeon and the anesthesiologist that you are using a CPAP device. Hospitals do not always have an available device or a mask like yours. When you leave the hospital, make sure you have all the parts of your device and your mask.

Did you know …?

We are pleased to inform you that Médicus now holds the Agrément Canada Accreditation.

This recognition is a pride for all our employees and respiratory therapists. It demonstrates the desire of our employees and leaders to continuously improve the quality of the goods and services we offer and to take the necessary steps to maintain this level of quality.

Sleep apnea

What is sleep apnea?