Cpap Masks May Help Alleviate Migrainesl

By Author: Larry Chandler
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Much of the information available about CPAP machine and mask use revolves around the benefits of getting a good night’s sleep and avoiding heart problems. People who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea typically use a CPAP machine and mask to help alleviate the challenges of sleep apnea. However, sleep apnea is being linked a wide variety of health conditions with heart conditions being just one. Some people who have suffered with migraines for years report a noticeable decrease in the frequency and severity of the headaches once beginning the use of a CPAP machine.


Cause of problem


Typically, people who struggle with sleep apnea have reduced amounts of oxygen getting to their lungs and subsequently to the rest of the body. With less oxygen in the blood supply going to the heart and brain, the conditions are optimal for an increase in migraines.


Not Just Out of Shape and Older


There are some misconceptions about the occurrence of sleep apnea. Many people believe it is a problem that only affects older people, since senior citizens ...
... often have problems with snoring. The other misconception is that sleep apnea affects only those who are out of shape or need to lose weight. But a recent story about a professional football player defied both of those opinions.


Percy Harvin, a player for the Minnesota Vikings football team, collapsed during practice in August. He was taken to a nearby hospital and thoroughly examined. Harvin suffered with migraines for many years and actually thought this recent problem was just a side effect from his headache problems. However, after some initial test results, the doctors ordered a sleep test for Harvin. His test showed periods where his heart ceased to beat for as many as 10 seconds while he slept.


Effective Treatment


After learning that he had sleep apnea, Harvin was fitted with a CPAP machine and mask to use at night. He is one of millions of people that use CPAP masks and machines in order to get a good night’s sleep. After using the machine for only a few days, Harvin stopped taking his prescription medication for migraines. Although he has battled migraines for several years, it appears that the use of the CPAP is providing much needed help to his situation.


To be clear, migraines are still being studied at great length by many specialists. The exact causes of all migraines are not yet understood. However, for many people there has been a correlation between frequent migraines and sleeping disorders. If you are one of those people that have frequent migraines and seem to wake up each morning tired, experience drowsy feelings during the day and feel run-down, it could be a case where sleep deprivation is part of the problem. Talk to your doctor about a sleep test to see if adding a CPAP machine and mask to your treatment is a way to help overcome the pain and unhappiness of migraine headaches.

Larry Chandler is a freelance writer for The CPAP Shop a supplier of CPAP masks. To view their wide range of products or CPAP tubing, visit their website Thecpapshop.com.