Sleep Apnea:
Our Sleep Program
At Mary Free Bed, our Comprehensive Sleep Program is designed to change that — helping you breathe easier, sleep better, and wake up ready for life. Our multidisciplinary team, including respiratory therapists, sleep specialists, pulmonologists, and care management professionals, works together to provide personalized evaluation and treatment.
How Are You Sleeping?
It’s a simple question, but your answer can reveal so much. At Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, we understand that sleep is the foundation for healing, health, and quality of life. For people living with sleep apnea, restful nights can feel out of reach.
As part of this process, we carefully assess each patient’s needs and evaluate the appropriate length of stay. If inpatient rehabilitation isn’t the right fit, our team will help navigate next steps after discharge, ensuring you continue to receive the care and support you need for long-term success.
Why Choose the Mary Free Bed Sleep Program?
We offer something unique:
What can take months to coordinate in an outpatient setting, we often accomplish during your inpatient stay. Our specialized team ensures your equipment fits properly, your settings are comfortable, and you leave with the education and support you need for success at home.
What Makes Our Program Different
Onsite Sleep Testing Sleep studies are completed right here while you’re in the rehabilitation hospital, no additional appointments needed.
Personalized Mask Fitting Our specialists ensure your mask fits comfortably and effectively because one size never fits all. Our team can monitor progress night after night, or over time, allowing for more individualized adjustments to settings, mask fit and patient comfort concerns.
Team Approach Our multidisciplinary team, including respiratory therapists, physicians, and nurses, works together to help you achieve better sleep and better health.
Dedicated Education & Support Before you go home, you’ll receive hands-on instruction, personalized tips, and ongoing support to help you feel confident using your equipment.
Sleep Apnea and You
Did You Know? Sleep apnea is a common but serious condition that causes your breathing to repeatedly stop and start during sleep. Left untreated, it can lead to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other health concerns, but with proper treatment, you can reclaim your energy, focus, and wellbeing.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Causes:
- Obstructed airway due to relaxed throat muscles or excess tissue
- Neurological issues that affect breathing control
- Obesity, smoking, and family history can increase risk
Signs & Symptoms:
- Loud or chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Daytime fatigue or irritability
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
Testing & Management:
- In-hospital or at-home sleep testing
- Personalized equipment setup (CPAP/BiPAP)
- Ongoing support to optimize comfort and results
Follow-Up Care:
- 90-day check-in with your sleep provider: We review your progress, answer questions, and adjust your therapy as needed.
- Annual follow-up with your sleep provider: Stay on track with yearly assessments and timely reordering of new supplies for best results.
From ECMO to Empowered: Hannah’s Recovery Story
Mary’s Story
Mary knows firsthand how vital sleep health can be. Her husband passed away before he could get help for his sleep apnea, a loss that inspired her mission to ensure no one else suffers silently. Through Mary’s compassion, our Sleep Program was built to provide education, support, and early intervention so families can rest easier knowing help is here.
Start Your Journey Toward Better Sleep
Better sleep begins with understanding your sleep health. As part of our commitment to the community, Mary Free Bed offers access to the Sleep by Cleveland Clinic app (in partnership with Mary), a free resource that includes a simple questionnaire to help assess your risk for common sleep disorders. At the end of the assessment, you’ll receive personalized information and local resources to help you take the next steps toward treatment. Download the Sleep by Cleveland Clinic app on the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Breathing Easier: Hannah Blumka Makes a Remarkable COVID-19 Recovery
Helpful Links
- Cleveland Clinic Sleep App Outcomes | Cleveland Clinic: https://my.clevelandclinic.org
- Could You Have Sleep Apnea Without Knowing It?: https://my.clevelandclinic.org
- Sleep Apnea: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment: https://my.clevelandclinic.org
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses can last several seconds and may occur many times throughout the night, often leading to poor sleep quality and low oxygen levels.
What are the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea?
Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, morning headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. Some people only learn they have sleep apnea after a bed partner notices their breathing pauses.
Are there different types of sleep apnea?
Yes. The two main types are:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, caused by the airway becoming blocked or collapsing during sleep.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Caused by the brain not sending proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Some patients have a combination, called complex sleep apnea.
What causes sleep apnea?
Risk factors include excess weight, neck circumference, family history, smoking, nasal congestion, and certain medical conditions. However, anyone can develop sleep apnea — even people who are thin and healthy.
How does a CPAP machine work?
A CPAP machine gently blows air through a mask into your airway to keep it open while you sleep. This prevents pauses in breathing and helps you get more restful, restorative sleep.
How do I know if my mask fits correctly?
Your mask should feel snug but comfortable, without air leaks or pressure points. If you notice irritation, leaks, or discomfort, contact your provider — small adjustments or trying a different style (nasal, nasal pillows, or full-face mask) can make a big difference.
What if I can't get used to my CPAP mask?
This is common at first. Try wearing the mask for short periods while awake to get used to it. Make sure your straps aren’t too tight, and that your humidifier settings are comfortable. Your respiratory therapist can also help you find a better fit or troubleshoot any issues from your durable medical equipment (DME) company.
How often should I clean my equipment?
Daily cleaning of your mask cushion with mild soap and warm water is recommended. Your headgear and tubing can be washed weekly, and filters should be replaced as instructed by your equipment provider. Let everything air dry completely.
How often should I replace my CPAP supplies?
Regular replacement keeps your equipment working properly and hygienically. Mask cushion: every 1–3 months
Headgear: every 6 months
Tubing: every 6 months
Filter: monthly or as needed
Water chamber: every 6 months
It’s also important to follow up at least once a year with your sleep center. This ensures your supplies continue to be covered by insurance and your physician can renew your prescription as needed. Regular check-ins also give you a chance to review your settings, comfort, and overall progress with therapy.
What if I wake up with a dry mouth or stuffy nose?
You may need to adjust your humidity or temperature settings. If you use a nasal mask and breathe through your mouth, adding a chin strap or switching to a full-face mask may help.
Can I travel with my CPAP machine?
Yes! CPAP machines are portable and allowed on airplanes. Always bring it as a carry-on item and carry your prescription in case airport security asks.
Do I have to use CPAP every night?
For best results, yes. Sleep apnea returns whenever the CPAP isn’t used. Regular nightly use improves energy levels, mood, and heart health.
What happens if I don't treat my sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and daytime fatigue that increases the risk of accidents.
How do I order new supplies?
Most suppliers send reminders when it’s time to replace parts. You can also contact our respiratory team at your durable medical equipment (DME) company directly for assistance with ordering or billing questions. Their number should be listed on your unit.
Who can I call if I have problems with my CPAP?
Don’t hesitate to reach out if something doesn’t feel right — small adjustments can make a big difference in your comfort and success. Call your durable medical equipment (DME) company or sleep center as they can review your CPAP device data and sleep logs, perform a thorough equipment audit, and determine is any adjustments need to be made. They can also help with mask fit, pressure issues, or comfort concerns to make sure you’re getting the most benefit from your therapy.
