For Sleep Apnea Patients, Compliance with Doctor's Orders Means Better Sleep, More Energy

While 80 year-old Sally S. was hospitalized for one medical issue, she was surprised when doctors discovered that she also had sleep apnea.

An overnight sleep test showed that she was having about 38 apneas (breathing stoppages) per hour, preventing her from getting the deep, uninterrupted, quality sleep everyone needs each night to help protect your mental and physical health, your quality of life - even your safety. Her doctor prescribed CPAP therapy (continuous positive airway pressure), by which the machine generates a steady air flow via a mask that keeps the person’s airways open during sleep. It’s estimated that 20 million Americans have sleep apnea, though most have not yet been diagnosed.

While her sleep apnea – and resulting chronic fatigue --may have been present for a long time, Sally assumed it was a normal result of the aging process. “After all, I’m 80. I was hesitant to start CPAP but I wanted to have the energy to walk my grandchildren’s dog, socialize with friends and family – and not fall asleep while knitting or watching my favorite TV shows – Hawaii 5-0 and Antiques Roadshow.

Her doctor told Sally that if she lost 20 pounds, the sleep apnea might disappear. “So I’ve adjusted my diet, and despite some discomfort, I’m getting used to my CPAP machine and mask,” she says. “I deal with Shayna, a Customer Service Representative at Reliable Respiratory where I got my CPAP. Their Respiratory Technician trained me to use it properly, and Shayna and her colleagues are always terrific and responsive.”

Shayna says, “I enjoy working with Sally on a professional and personal level. Working with our patients on a regular basis makes it easy for me to understand their needs. I strive on building a good rapport with the patients. In some cases it is difficult enough for the patient to have sleep apnea. A positive customer service experience is beneficial for the patients and our company. I believe that if we work hand-in-hand with our patients, we will have more satisfied patients, stronger customer service – and better CPAP compliance.”

Reliable Respiratory, based in Norwood, is a leading home respiratory equipment supplier, providing state-of-the-art equipment to help patients achieve maximum compliance that can result in a better quality of life. For info, call (866) 551-3335, email support@reliablerespiratory.com or visit www.reliablerespiratory.com.

By Stanley Hurwitz / stanhurwitz@gmail.com