My son was diagnosed at age 14 but probably had severe apnea well before that time. I'd like to see a national push to educate practitioners about different screening techniques to utilize. Because of our persistence he was evaluated by an ENT physician who in turn listened closely to our son's medical and family history. Having moved 5 times since our son was born I can say that there is still not a consistent approach to how practitioners screen for apnea. Instead of prescribing medications for sleep or ADHD I hope that more practitioners will order sleep studies. I think we will find there is more of a genetic component to sleep apnea then we realize.
A great resource for this site might be collecting supply company names and having patients rate their performance. I have moved quite a bit and have found the knowledge and resources available to patients can vary greatly. Also, having the makers of products advertise the latest options available on this site. I think this would help increase patient compliance with the use of a Cpap machine. As a nurse and a family member of several Cpap users I am shocked by how little patients know about the equipment that is available. The problem boils down to patients having to deal with companies that aren't good or very helpful.
My husband and son use the Cpap wipes for the mask/pillows. They rarely clean the tube. We were told 1 part vinegar to 9 parts water or baby shampoo.
