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Detrimental Effects of CPAP

Posted by Mark on October 29, 2004 at 20:16:35:

I have been off CPAP for the last 7 months after trying to adapt or get accustomed to it for 6 months. I have GERD and recenlty been diagnosed with colitis.

I was told that most people with GERD are unable to use CPAP because the pressure of the machine causes the valve or sphincter to be pushed open. This is a foreign effect on my body, and intruder so to speak. I never had a case of "swallowing air" before. I have my bed elevated and try to avoid foods that are bad for me to lessen the effects of GERD. I feel that I got GERD from my sleep apnea.

I even tried lowering the CPAP pressure and I have continuously have hiccups, major gastric bloating and abdominal cramping while on CPAP. When I have a bowel movement in the a.m. I really notice the effects of CPAP on my system and as such, I don't/can't sleep while on CPAP. Once I stopped using CPAP, symptoms were lessened considerably and the hiccups went away and the bowel movements improved.

I have been on Nexium for the last six months and I am considering trying CPAP again. My doctor says I should try a dental appliance instead as this is pretty much the second last alternative. I really dont think the appliance will work on me.

Any comments/suggestions?

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