Alicia Mccarvell opens up about using CPAP machine to treat sleep apnea: 'I feel happier'

Alicia Mccarvell is getting candid about using a CPAP machine.

On Thursday, the Canadian influencer took to Instagram with a selfie wearing a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine mask, paired with a detailed message opening up about her struggles with sleep apnea.

Mccarvell addressed the stigma surrounding CPAP therapy, revealing that when she initially announced her CPAP journey on social media, she "was met with kindness but also a lot of ignorant people who have zero idea what they are talking about."

"This ignorance is partly what held me back from getting the healthcare support I needed all these years and it needs to stop," she said.

Asserting that healthcare is nothing to be embarrassed about, she urged her fellow "CPAP'ers" to ally themselves:

"Having a CPAP is nothing to be embarrassed about. CPAPers unite."

In the comments, fans applauded Mccarvell's honesty and thanked her for sharing her journey.

"You're so real for sharing this. Thank you," an Instagram user wrote.

"Thank you so much for sharing!," another chimed in.

"CPAP is going to literally improve your quality of life ten fold truly... so happy for you above all. Yay for good sleep friend," someone else commented.

"What a wonderful way to use your influence to remove a stigma to a necessary medical treatment for individuals!," a fan added.

Mccarvell introduced her followers to her CPAP machine early this month. In her Instagram stories, she shared a bedtime selfie with the mask on, and joked, "My sexiness has reached an all-time high in the bedroom, everyone."

What is a CPAP machine?

The CPAP machine serves as the primary treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, according to Healthline. It delivers a constant stream of air through a mask, preventing airway collapse during sleep — this "keeps your airways open and helps you breathe normally."

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea, a prevalent sleep disorder, is marked by recurrent interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, or apneas, are often caused by the relaxation of throat muscles, leading to partial or complete airway blockages. Its symptoms include loud snoring, pausing in breathing, and choking or gasping.

Mccarvell began by revealing the symptom she has found the most challenging: "I have snored my whole life. I remember sleeping in a different room at sleepovers because of it."

"I was diagnosed with obstructive apnea years ago when I was 'thin,' so weight isn't the only factor," Mccarvell noted, dispelling any misconceptions about her diagnosis. After failed surgeries to address her condition, Mccarvell revisited the CPAP option after seeing a video of herself sleeping. "I was terrified," she admitted, adding that she ordered a CPAP machine that same night.

What are the risks of untreated sleep apnea?

Untreated sleep apnea can pose a health risk, according to research. The intermittent interruptions in breathing can lead to chronic fatigue, daytime sleepiness and impaired cognitive function. Additionally, untreated sleep apnea has been linked to more severe conditions, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and an increased risk of stroke.

The self-love advocate tried her machine for the first time this month, surprising herself by finding it "not as uncomfortable as I thought it would be." Mccarvell reflected on the immediate results, saying, "I feel awake the minute I wake up. I feel no exhaustion mid-day. I am not snoring anymore. I feel happier. I've had more energy to move my body."

How does sleep apnea affect Canadians?

In Canada, sleep apnea is considered a widespread issue, as it affects approximately five to 10 per cent of the population. Contributing factors often include: aging, obesity and family history.

It can affect individuals of any age, including children, but it is more commonly seen in older adults.

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