General News
19 June, 2025
Sleep easier with CPAP
CONTINUOUS Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines are one of the most effective treatments for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
CPAP Shop Cairns manager Sam Zimmerman said using a CPAP machine helped keep the airway open by delivering a steady stream of pressurised air through a mask.
“This simple intervention can significantly improve sleep quality, boost energy levels and reduce the long-term health risks associated with untreated sleep apnoea, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke,” she said.
“Many people live with sleep apnoea without realising it. There are several telltale symptoms that may indicate the need for a sleep study, the first step in diagnosing the condition.”
Common signs include:
Loud, chronic snoring
Gasping or choking during sleep
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Difficulty concentrating
Mood changes such as irritability or depression.
“If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms regularly, a sleep study can provide valuable insight into your sleep patterns and determine if CPAP therapy is appropriate,” Ms Zimmerman said.
“The benefits of using a CPAP machine are substantial. People who consistently use CPAP report feeling more refreshed and alert during the day.
“It can also help prevent the health complications associated with OSA, improve memory and cognitive function, and even enhance relationships, as partners no longer have to contend with disruptive snoring.”
Ms Zimmerman said one valuable option for those new to CPAP therapy was the availability of a two-week trial period.
“This trial allows individuals to experience firsthand how the machine feels and works during sleep without a long-term commitment,” she said.
“It provides an opportunity to adjust to wearing the mask, learn how to maintain the equipment and experience the potential improvements in sleep and daytime alertness.
“For many, this trial period is an eye-opener and often the catalyst for committing to long-term use, especially when they realise how much better they feel after just a few nights of restful sleep.
“In summary, CPAP therapy can be life-changing for those suffering from sleep apnoea.
“Recognising symptoms early and undergoing a sleep study can lead to effective treatment and a significant improvement in overall well-being.
“CPAP Shop’s two-week trial provides a risk-free way to explore whether CPAP is right for you and can help ease the transition into long-term treatment.”
