The Forgotten Portal

Category: Sleep Disorders

  • CPAP Machine Causes Dry Eyes Upon Waking: Key Insights

    CPAP Machine Causes Dry Eyes Upon Waking: Key Insights

    Understanding the Impact of CPAP Therapy on Your Eye Health: An In-Depth Exploration

    Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines have revolutionized the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea, leading to remarkable improvements in sleep quality for many individuals. While these devices effectively enhance breathing and overall sleep experience, they can inadvertently lead to a pressing concern: dry and irritated eyes. Numerous CPAP users frequently report waking up with unpleasant sensations, including burning, grittiness, or excessive tearing. Unfortunately, many remain unaware that their sleep therapy could be the root cause of their ocular discomfort. Recognizing this vital connection is essential for achieving restorative sleep while safeguarding your eye health.

    Dry Eye Treatments

    Unraveling the Reasons Behind Dry Eye Symptoms Associated with CPAP Use

    While sleeping, the pressurized air delivered by a CPAP machine can escape from the mask, directing airflow straight onto your eyes. Even a minor leak, particularly near the nasal bridge, can cause air to blow upward, resulting in a gradual yet persistent drying effect on the ocular surface throughout the night. This airflow issue can be especially problematic for individuals who sleep on their back or side, or for those who use full-face masks. Often, the continuous airflow goes unnoticed until morning, leading to significant discomfort and irritation.

    The ramifications of this airflow extend beyond mere dryness of the eye’s surface; it can also accelerate tear evaporation and promote ongoing inflammation over time. If this issue persists night after night, the eyelid may struggle to adequately seal and protect the eye, worsening discomfort and exacerbating symptoms of dryness and irritation.

    Effective Strategies to Alleviate Dry Eye Symptoms Related to CPAP Therapy

    Start by meticulously evaluating your CPAP setup:

    • Check for Mask Leaks: Ensure that your mask fits snugly and comfortably. A proper seal around your face minimizes air leaks that could irritate your eyes. Masks with a forehead support bar or dual-wall seals can significantly reduce unwanted airflow directed upwards, alleviating discomfort.
    • Modify Your Sleeping Position: Consider elevating your head slightly or sleeping on your side to adjust the airflow dynamics around the mask, effectively directing the air away from your eyes and reducing irritation.
    • Incorporate Heated Humidification: If your CPAP device includes a humidifier, make sure to activate it. This feature injects moisture into the airflow, alleviating overall dryness in both the nasal passages and the sensitive tissues of the eyes, thus enhancing comfort.

    Choosing the Right CPAP Mask to Minimize Eye Irritation

    Some CPAP masks are naturally more susceptible to leaking air around the eye area than others. For example, nasal pillow masks are designed to direct air solely into the nostrils, making them less likely to adversely affect the eyes. Additionally, masks with flexible frames or soft cushions provide better facial contouring, resulting in fewer gaps and reduced air leakage. If you are suffering from eye-related symptoms, experimenting with a different mask style could yield considerable comfort and significant relief from discomfort.

    Exploring the Benefits of Moisture-Sealing Eye Masks for CPAP Users

    For those utilizing CPAP machines who experience dry eyes, the EyeSeals 4.0 moisture mask has proven to be an invaluable addition to nightly routines. This soft, medical-grade silicone shield creates a moisture-retentive environment around the eyes, effectively preventing airflow from reaching the delicate ocular surface. The gentle seal serves not only as a protective barrier but also helps retain natural tears throughout the night. This mask can be utilized both with and without CPAP devices, and many users report a significant reduction in symptoms after just a few nights of consistent use, enhancing their overall comfort.

    By assisting in maintaining the normal tear film during sleep, the EyeSeals 4.0 plays a critical role in supporting long-term eye health, eliminating the need for wake-up treatments or morning eye drops, and promoting a more comfortable sleeping experience.

    Eye Seals 4.0

    Enhancing Your Sleep Environment for Optimal Eye Comfort

    There is no reason for CPAP therapy to be accompanied by the burden of eye discomfort. By implementing the right adjustments and utilizing protective tools like the EyeSeals 4.0, you can enjoy deep, restorative sleep without the irritation or blurriness that often follows upon waking. At Eyes By Design, we are dedicated to providing effective dry eye solutions tailored for both daytime and nighttime use, ensuring that your vision remains healthy and clear even when the lights go out.

    Eyeseals 4.0

    Discover Additional Solutions for Comprehensive Dry Eye Relief:

    At Eyes By Design, we offer in-store consultations with our knowledgeable optometrists, or you can conveniently browse our online store for an extensive selection of dry eye treatment products tailored to your needs.

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    02 4369 8169

    This article aims to enhance understanding and knowledge regarding general eye health topics.
    It should not replace professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
    Always consult your health care provider before making any changes to your health regimen.

    dr nick

    Dr Nicholas Altuneg
    With over two decades of experience, my passion lies in helping individuals of all ages improve their lives through enhanced vision. At Eyes by Design, we recognize that vision encompasses much more than merely seeing clearly or reading small text from a distance; it fundamentally shapes your perceptions and responses every moment of the day.
    Discover more about Dr Nick

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  • Treatments for Insomnia That Work

    Treatments for Insomnia That Work

    Insomnia Treatments That Work

    If you’re one of the many men and women who suffer from insomnia, you know how aggravating it can be to lay in bed for hours, tossing and turning, attempting to fall asleep. However, the more you attempt, the less probable it seems that you will fall asleep. Many individuals have insomnia at some time in their life, and there is a range of treatments that might assist them in getting the rest they need. There are several pharmacological and natural therapies for insomnia. While everyone’s experience with insomnia is unique, there are several therapies that work for the majority of individuals. Here are a few examples:

    Over-the-counter insomnia treatments

    Over-the-counter insomnia medications are likely to be one of the first things you try if you are having difficulty sleeping. These should only be used to treat insomnia in the short term. When selecting an over-the-counter insomnia remedy, it is recommended to get the counsel of a pharmacist to determine which one is best for you. Remember to mention any other medications you are taking since the efficacy of other medications may be influenced by the sleep medicine (1).

    Diphenhydramine is a commonly used over-the-counter drug for treating insomnia. Nytol is the brand name for the sleep aid. This medicine works by targeting the brain areas important for regulating sleep, inducing relaxation, and assisting patients in falling and staying asleep (2). Diphenhydramine has been demonstrated to be safer than prescription sleep aids for many individuals. However, before taking diphenhydramine, you should contact a doctor, particularly if you have any pre-existing medical issues or a history of drug abuse. Furthermore, it is critical to carefully follow the dose directions since taking too much of this drug may induce nausea, diarrhea, and even visual problems (3). Overall, diphenhydramine may be an effective therapy choice for persons suffering from insomnia, but it must be used with caution and attention.

    Doxylamine is an over-the-counter insomnia medication. It is a sedating antihistamine that acts by inhibiting the function of histamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates wakefulness (4). Doxylamine is usually given half an hour before going to bed. Doxylamine users may encounter adverse effects such as dry mouth, sleepiness, and headaches. When used as intended, doxylamine is usually regarded as safe. People with specific medical issues, such as asthma, glaucoma, or bladder difficulties, should not take it. Before using doxylamine, check with your doctor to ensure that it is safe for you (5).

    Suffering from insomnia

    Melatonin

    Another alternative is to take melatonin, a hormone generated naturally by the body that aids in the regulation of sleep cycles. Melatonin levels in insomniacs might be affected by poor sleep hygiene, lifestyle, or bedroom environment. Melatonin pills are widely accessible and may be an effective strategy to enhance sleep quality. Melatonin has been found in studies to help individuals fall asleep faster and enhance sleep efficiency, which means that those who take it spend more time sleeping. Melatonin may also benefit persons who suffer from jet lag or work night shifts.

    It is critical to take melatonin at the proper time while treating insomnia. Melatonin is most effective when taken one to two hours before sleep. This allows the body to absorb the supplement and begin to feel tired. However, since everyone is unique, it may take some trial and error to determine the optimal time for you.

    Melatonin is generally safe for most individuals to use, while there are potential negative effects. These include daytime drowsiness, nausea, and dizziness. More significant adverse effects, including disorientation, fainting, and depression, may occur in some persons. For these reasons, it is important to consult with a physician before using a melatonin supplement, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Melatonin should not be used by those with auto-immune illnesses; therefore, they must seek alternate therapies or adhere to a stringent sleep hygiene program (6).

    Prescription sedatives

    These drugs, which include zolpidem (Ambien) (7) and benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax or Valium) (8), have a high success rate in treating insomnia, and many users report extended durations of deep sleep after using them. However, these medicines have a variety of downsides, including grogginess upon awakening and drug dependency (9).

    When it comes to treating insomnia, antidepressant medications are often one of the more effective solutions. These drugs act by increasing the amounts of particular neurotransmitters in the brain, such as GABA. This provides a soothing and relaxing impact on the body. These medications may help to enhance sleep quality by boosting these chemical messengers, enabling patients to obtain the rest they need to feel refreshed and alert throughout the day (10). There may be negative effects on attention that influence driving and performance the following day (11). Some individuals may have other adverse effects, such as irritability or sexual problems (12). However, for many people, these side effects are more tolerable than the issues created by chronic sleeplessness. So, if you’re having trouble sleeping, speak with your doctor about if taking a depression medication might help you sleep better and enhance your overall health and well-being.

    Having said that, if you are currently on medicine or do not want to risk the negative effects of insomnia treatments, you may want to try non-drug methods. Fortunately, there are a few effective insomnia remedies that you may try.

    Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

    Because of its efficacy, safety, and low danger of dependency or addiction, this non-pharmaceutical way of treating insomnia is gaining favor. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) focuses on employing behaviors and activities to create healthy sleep patterns and improve sleep habits. The purpose of CBT is to modify how a person thinks about and reacts to sleeping problems. A person may get control of their insomnia and attain higher quality sleep by learning how to quiet the mind, relax the body, and fall asleep more quickly (13).

    Relaxation exercises, guided imagery, pleasant waking routines, sensory management measures, scheduled awakenings, and healthy lifestyle adjustments are also often utilized for insomnia therapy (14). These therapies, whether used alone or in conjunction with medication, maybe a useful strategy for assisting patients in getting the rest they need.

    Acupuncture

    While this traditional Chinese treatment is often used to treat pain and other health issues, it also seems to be beneficial in treating sleeplessness. It has even been shown to be more effective than certain sleeping pills (15). Acupuncture is inserting very thin needles into the skin at precise places on the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, this aids in the unblocking of qi (or life force) and the restoration of physical equilibrium. While acupuncture is often used to alleviate pain, it may also be used to cure insomnia. Acupuncture is supposed to function by promoting the release of neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and reduce tension. GABA and serotonin are two examples (16). If you want to attempt acupuncture as a therapy for insomnia, you should check with a skilled practitioner to verify that the needles are put appropriately.

    Acupressure

    Acupressure is a centuries-old healing practice that has been utilized to cure a wide range of diseases. If you don’t like the concept of needles, you might try acupressure as an insomnia therapy at home. There are many pressure sites on the body that might aid in relaxation and stress relief (17). Applying pressure to these sites might cause the body to produce endorphins, which can assist induce sleep. Furthermore, acupressure may lower stress, both of which can be beneficial in the treatment of insomnia (18). While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to treating insomnia, acupressure may be a helpful alternative for people seeking a natural and drug-free way to enhance their sleep.

    As seen, there are several approaches to treating insomnia, including medicine, proper sleep habits, and alternative remedies. All have been shown to function; it simply depends on which one works best for each individual.

    References

    1. Over the Counter Sleep Aids https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-aids/over-the-counter-sleep-aids
    2. Diphenhydramine https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/diphenhydramine/
    3. Diphenhydramine https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682539.html
    4. Review of the histamine system and the clinical effects of H1 antagonists: Basis for a new model for understanding the effects of insomnia medications https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1087079212000962?via%3Dihub
    5. Doxylamine https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682537.html
    6. Melatonin for sleep problems https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/melatonin/
    7. Zolpidem https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/zolpidem/
    8. Benzodiazepines https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Benzodiazepenes-2020_1.pdf
    9. Prescription sleeping pills: What’s right for you? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/in-depth/sleeping-pills/art-20043959

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  • How Long Will Insomnia Last?

    How Long Will Insomnia Last?

    How long does insomnia last?

    Insomnia is a disorder in which individuals have difficulties sleeping or staying asleep. Stress, anxiety, drugs, or underlying medical issues may all contribute to it. There are numerous varieties of insomnia, each of which may endure for varying lengths of time.

    To begin with, acute insomnia is a short-term disorder that might last a single day, a few days, or a few weeks. It is sometimes induced by pressures such as job loss, examinations, or a family tragedy. When these concerns are resolved, the individual suffering from acute insomnia might expect to resume regular sleep habits. One of the most difficult aspects of this form of insomnia is that you have plenty to worry about throughout the day, and you need your shut-eye more than ever to function. As a result, it is critical to developing stress-management skills in order to obtain enough sleep.

    Another strategy to cope with short-term insomnia is to avoid lying in bed worrying. Get up and do something useful, such as making a list. For example, you may make a list of everything you need to accomplish to stay afloat financially, emotionally, or both. This takes it out of your thoughts and onto paper, where it can be forgotten, and you can sleep. Make sure you follow through on what you wrote the following day. Reach out to your friends and family for emotional support. And, above all, remember to be optimistic. Dwelling on the bad will just exacerbate your sleeplessness. However, I recognize that when you’re alone with your thoughts at night, it’s easier said than done.

    Lack of sleep

    Do not be tempted to peek at your phone and begin checking your emails. The blue light will further disrupt your sleep. If general anxiety is keeping you awake, try mindful meditation or a calming bath before going to bed. It will take some time and work on your part, but you should be sleeping like a baby in no time.

    Chronic sleep deprivation may endure for months or even years, preferably for longer than three weeks (1). This long-term ailment affects between ten and thirty-five percent of the population (2). Chronic insomnia may be classified as primary or secondary. Primary insomnia occurs for apparently unexplainable causes, is referred to by medical experts as idiopathic, and seems to affect predominantly middle-aged women (3).

    Long-term sleep deprivation may result in decreased productivity and absenteeism at work, as well as accidents at home and at work (4), all of which have a detrimental impact on quality of life and well-being.

    Primary insomnia is considered to be caused by disruptions in the body’s circadian rhythm, which is the natural hormonal cycle that governs sleep and awake. However, the actual reason for these interruptions in sleep cycles is unknown (5).

    Despite this lack of knowledge, there are a variety of successful therapies for patients suffering from primary insomnia, ranging from meditation and sleep hygiene guidelines to melatonin supplements and prescription drugs.

    sleep inducing vitamins and herbsEstablishing regular behaviors in your life is part of sleep hygiene. These include reading or having a warm bath before going to bed. Establish a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and getting up at the same time every day. Caffeine, alcohol, hot and fatty meals, television, and mobile phones should all be avoided before going to bed. If you suffer from chronic insomnia, don’t give up hope; there is relief available! Just be sure to discuss your alternatives with your doctor and choose a therapy that works for you. After all, getting enough sleep is critical for preserving physical and mental health, so it’s well worth doing whatever it takes to get the rest you need.

    Secondary insomnia is a sleep disturbance induced by another medical issue. In other words, sleeplessness is a complication of the primary illness. It might be caused by physical or mental health issues, drugs, or other circumstances. Stress is the most prevalent cause of secondary insomnia, which may, regrettably, lead to even more stress (6). Obesity (7), anxiety, depression, chronic pain, cancer (8), menopause (9), dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease are some of the other factors (10). Secondary insomnia may also be induced by respiratory problems such as sleep apnea (11) and asthma (12). (12).

    Unfortunately, all of these disorders may occur on a long-term basis, which is bad news for insomniacs. It is almost always not the real health condition that causes the lack of sleep. The dread, worry, stress, and anxiety associated with the sickness keep the individual awake. Learning to manage these emotions is an excellent first step toward having a decent night’s sleep. Many specialists advocate cognitive behavior therapy for this purpose (13).

    Other secondary insomnia therapies often include addressing the underlying disease. Bedtime medicine, such as sleeping tablets, may be administered in specific instances. However, this is a last resort that physicians will not undertake until all other alternatives have been explored (14).

    To overcome insomnia, go back to fundamentals, practice excellent sleeping habits, acquire coping skills for stress and anxiety, and be patient. If you have any medical ailments that might be causing your sleeplessness, be sure you address them. Your sleep should improve over time if you use these approaches.

    References

    1. Primary insomnia https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19768930/
    2. Association between sleep disorders, obesity, and exercise: a review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3630986/
    3. Chronic insomnia and stress system https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2128619/
    4. Insomnia: Definition, Prevalence, Etiology, and Consequences https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1978319/
    5. Functional and structural brain alterations in insomnia: implications for pathophysiology https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19473230/
    6. Chronic insomnia is associated with nyctohemeral activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: clinical implications https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11502812/
    7. Short sleep duration and obesity: the role of emotional stress and sleep disturbances https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18253159/
    8. Sleeping Problems: Insomnia https://www.cancer.net/coping-with-cancer/physical-emotional-and-social-effects-cancer/managing-physical-side-effects/sleeping-problems-insomnia
    9. Management of Menopause-Related Symptoms https://core.ac.uk/reader/37774971?utm_source=linkout
    10. Approach to insomnia in patients with dementia https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5765587/
    11. Insomnia and Obstructive Sleep Apnea https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3763954/
    12. Association Between Insomnia and Asthma Burden in the Severe Asthma Research Program https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5310183/
    13. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia https://www.sleepfoundation.org/insomnia/treatment/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-insomnia
    14. Insomnia https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/insomnia/

     

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