Respironics Touts Help for Sleep-Deprived Travelers
MURRYSVILLE, Pa. — The popularity of sleep remedies is on the rise. Consider: sleep pods are popping up in airports and office buildings, allowing the sleep-starved 40 winks for a fee. Hotels are touting premium mattresses. Billions are being spent on over-the-counter and prescription medications. Drowsy driver monitors are turning up in cars. Is it any wonder? Millions of people have trouble sleeping.
These modern-day fixes may be masking a more menacing problem, say experts at Respironics Inc. Sleep apnea occurs when breathing stops during sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 18 million Americans have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The telltale signs include loud, disruptive snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness.
The condition is as common as diabetes or asthma, yet of the estimated 55 million sufferers, only 15 to 20 percent are diagnosed. Untreated, the illness can lead to memory problems, weight gain, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.
Fortunately for today's active consumers, it's easier than ever to stay on track with sleep therapy — even when vacationing or traveling on business. The sleek designs seen in popular consumer electronics such as cell phones, laptop computers and digital music players are part of a new breed of medical devices coming onto the market.
One of the newest products from Respironics is the REMstar® M Series Sleep Systems. Respironics released the first commercially available continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device in 1985. CPAP keeps the airway open by delivering a gentle stream of air through a comfortable mask, worn over the nose or mouth, for uninterrupted sleep. This noninvasive therapy is often the first line of defense as the treatment of choice for OSA.
"Everyone knows the benefits of a good night's sleep," says Maura Weis, marketing manager, Sleep Therapy, for Respironics. "The key to effectively treating apnea patients is consistency — the best results are achieved through regular use — making CPAP part of their nightly routine. Our new family of devices was designed to give patients more of what they want — superior therapy that's easy to use and in tune with their lifestyles."
Smaller than a laptop, the new model packs stylish good looks in a compact, ergonomic design that goes from carry-on to nightstand with ease. Respironics' M Series devices weigh only 2.2 lbs. At 7.5x 5x3.125 inches, the unit looks more like a high performance clock radio than a medical device.
Designed to go places, today's sleep therapy systems are equipped with a universal power supply or adapters for international use. Transportation security agents are familiar with CPAP devices, so getting through airport security checkpoints is a breeze. A padded carrying case, standard with REMstar M Series devices, doubles as carry-on luggage.
Beyond the handsome chassis, ease of use and portability, advanced features of Respironics' M Series are equally telling. C-FLEX™ waveform technology tracks each breath and adjusts the amount of pressure delivered during exhalation for enhanced comfort. Advanced models, like REMstar® Pro, automatically compensate for different altitudes. Optional accessories range from integrated heated humidifiers and pollen filters to convenient travel and battery packs.
These modern sleep inventions also exhibit high IQs. Smart technology such as the Respironics Encorereg Pro SmartCardreg accessory module captures critical data such as mask leak activity, allowing users and health care providers to monitor use and respond to treatment needs without a trip to the doctor's office.
Available in three models, entry-level to premium, Respironics sleep therapy systems are designed for use in the home or favorite vacation spot. For information, visit www.mseries.respironics.com or call (800) 345-6443.
SOURCE: Respironics Inc.
This article originally appeared in the June 2006 issue of HME Business.