When Treatment Doesn’t Work
Sometimes treatment quite simply does not work. It may fail to relieve the symptoms. Rarely, it may even make symptoms worse. It is not uncommon to have difficulties tolerating treatments. These difficulties do not need to be the end of the matter. It is important to seek other treatment options, to continue to be a strong self-advocate, and to get additional evaluation if need.
Finding Support
For some people, finding others who have similar struggles can be a great resource and source of support. Many sleep specialty clinics offer support groups. In addition, online forums can also be an excellent venue for the exchange of ideas and support.
Long-Term Consequences
With most sleep disorders, there is a risk of serious consequences should the disorder go untreated. These may range from car accidents due to sleep deprivation to hypertension to diabetes to sudden death. Keeping these consequences in mind, it is important to firmly commit yourself to seeking the appropriate recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of sleep disorders.
Sources:
Al-Barrak, S. et al. "Morbidity and mortality in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome 2: Effect of treatment on neuropsychiatric morbidity and quality of life." Sleep Biol Rhythms. 2003 1:65.
Campos-Rodriguez, F. et al. "Mortality in obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea patients treated with positive airway pressure." Chest. 2005 128:624.
Chervin, R.D. et al. "Compliance with nasal CPAP can be improved by simple interventions." Sleep. 1997 20:284.
Morin, C.M. et al. "Role of stress, arousal, and coping skills in primary insomnia." Psychosomatic Medicine. 2003 65(2):259-67.
Phillips, B. et al. "Management of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome: Overview." Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine. 4th ed. Saunders, 2005.
Shepertycky, M. et al. "Morbidity and mortality in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome 1: Effect of treatment on cardiovascular morbidity." Sleep Biol Rhythms. 2003 1:15.
"The International Classification of Sleep Disorders: Diagnostic and Coding Manual." 2nd ed. American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2005.
