How do oxygen concentrators help sleep apnoea?

Tired of not being able to sleep at night? Depression, erectile dysfunction or headaches become your daily routine? No need to go to the operating theatre. Oxygen concentrators are the best remedy to treat sleep apnoea. Take a breath. We are going to explain why!

According to the Spanish Sleep Society, around 4% of the population suffers from this problem, a problem that is more prevalent among the population over the age of 40 and more so in men than in women. Likewise, and as everything in health is interrelated, we must tell you that 80% of those who suffer from sleep apnoea are overweight. Whether this is your case or not, we want to talk to you about oxygen concentrators, a quick and effective solution that will make your nights and your partner’s nights lighter!

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome (OSA) is caused by a total obstruction to the passage of air in the patient’s upper airway during certain phases of sleep, causing a feeling of suffocation that makes us wake up constantly and therefore prevent us from resting properly. But what would happen if we supplied our lungs with all the oxygen we lack through an external source?

Oxygen concentrators use continuous oxygen flow systems to supply air with a higher oxygen content. Although there are different models, each according to the wide range of therapeutic pressures and breathing quality of the individual, they all perform the same basic function. Other features unique to each model of oxygen concentrator, yet very useful, include temperature control, ease of use, automatic leak compensation and mechanised start-stop. 

The use of external oxygen for the treatment of sleep apnoea is very positive and makes it easier for us to rest, although if our lung disease becomes largely obstructive, both during the day and at night, then it would also be advisable to undergo a more rigorous medical examination.

The oxygen from the concentrators is supplied through a nasal cannula or mask that connects directly to the patient’s nasal passages. As it is concentrated, it will allow us to have a continuous flow of oxygen and our apnoea will disappear.

However, we must take into account some tips when using a mechanical device while we sleep:

• It is important to avoid contact of the concentrator with cigarettes or flames, as this is a highly flammable object.
• Even if sleep apnoea is a concern, we should not rush. 

The first thing to do is to switch on the machine, and once it has been started, switch on the oxygen, otherwise a sudden spark could ignite the oxygen.

The concentrator should only have one flow valve. Having a one-way valve will prevent oxygen from flowing back into the machine.

Of course, the use of oxygen concentrators is an immediate solution to alleviate sleep apnoea and put an end to those long nights of torture when it is impossible to sleep a wink. Moreover, we can find them at very affordable prices and within the reach of all budgets.

If what we want is to find the rest necessary for optimal health and well-being, there is no doubt, oxygen concentrators are the best fighters against sleep apnoea.