Sleep apnea is characterized by a nocturnal breathing disorder caused by temporary obstructions in the upper respiratory tract (jaw, soft palate, uvula, tonsils, tonsils, tongue, throat). These episodes result in either a temporary cessation of breathing (apnea) or a marked decrease in respiratory flow (hypopnea). They can cause micro-awakenings, a drop in blood oxygen and increased respiratory effort, often (not always) accompanied by snoring.

• Excessive tiredness or a feeling of never being rested, even after a full night
  
• Sleepiness during the day (e.g. falling asleep in front of the television, reading, or driving)
  
• Morning headaches
  
• Dry mouth or sore throat when you wake up
  
• Concentration problems and memory loss
  
• Irritability, bad mood, anxiety, or depressive symptoms
  
• Decreased libido, hormonal disorders, or erection problems
  
• Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat (especially in women)

Yes, a prescription from a doctor or IPS (Specialized Nurse Practitioner) is required. If you don't have one, we can refer you to an affiliated doctor.

The IAH measures the number of respiratory arrests per hour of sleep:

• Light: 5 to 15
  
• Moderate: 15 to 30
  
• Severe: 30 and over

Average number of events per hour corresponding either to a complete cessation of breathing (apnea) or to a marked decrease in respiratory amplitude (hypopnea), occurring despite maintained or increased respiratory effort.

Severity criteria

The severity of sleep apnea is assessed by taking into account all the symptoms experienced by the person (not just sleepiness during the day), as well as a number called the AHI (Apnea-Hypopnoea Index), which measures the number of abnormal respiratory events per hour.

Depending on the symptoms, the doctor determines how mild (5 to 15 events per hour), moderate (15 to 30 events per hour), or severe (30 events per hour), or severe (30 events per hour) the disease is.

Yes Among other things, it can lead to:

• High blood pressure
  
• Heart attacks and strokes
  
• Cardiac arrhythmias
  
• Type 2 diabetes
  
• Metabolic disorders — obesity
  
• Cognitive problems — memory problems
  
• Depression and anxiety
  
• Liver problems
  
• Reduced quality of life

PCRS (Cardiorespiratory sleep polygraph): $375 — Test at home

PSG (Polysomnography): $1,250 — Sleep lab test
Simple Tandem Protocol : $375 (90% of cases)
Tandem Ventilation protocol : $750 (8% of cases)

Tandem Servoventilation protocol: $1125 (2% of cases)
The typical course includes a PCRS to diagnose sleep apnea, followed by the simple Tandem protocol.

• PCRS : home test, measures respiratory signs and oxygen levels during sleep. Sufficient in the majority of cases.
• PSG : a sleep laboratory test, used for more complex cases. Also monitors brain and muscle activity.
  

The Tandem protocol is exclusive to Côté Santé!

It is a personalized support of 2 to 4 weeks with the loan of CPAP and masks, during which our team adjusts the treatment according to the data to ensure comfort and efficiency.

Sleep counsellors, respiratory therapists, pneumologists, as well as our medical director Dr. Kateri Champagne, author of the Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Sleep Respiratory Disorders Exercise Guide published by the Collège des Médecins du Québec.

There are three types of CPAP masks: facial, nasal, and nostril. For effective treatment, it is essential to minimize air leaks and to choose the right size using the guides provided by the manufacturers. But there is no substitute for testing: testing different models remains the best way to ensure optimal comfort.

Yes, most private insurances reimburse some or all of the costs associated with the treatment of sleep apnea, including tests, CPAP machines and accessories. We recommend that you check your coverage details directly with your insurance provider.

The price varies by model and features, but generally stays under $1,500.

The mandibular extension device, manufactured by a dentist, may be an alternative. We can refer you to a partner dentist if needed.

• CPAP: every 5 years
  
• Full mask: every 12 months
  
• Tubing: every 12 months
  
• CPAP water tank: every 12 months
  
• Silicone bubble masks: every 6 months
  
• Memory foam bubbles for masks: every 1 to 3 months
  
• CPAP filters: every 1 to 3 months

Yes, we offer the Resmed AirMini, a compact, lightweight travel CPAP that's compatible with multiple masks.