Sean Hayes’ Sleep Apnea CPAP Problems

On this week’s podcast episode of SmartLess, comedian Sean Hayes opened up about his experience being diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. At 54 years old, he underwent a sleep study that confirmed he had severe sleep apnea—a condition that affects millions but is often misunderstood.

“I got the sleep study, and they said, ‘you have apnea, it’s really bad.’”

Like many newly diagnosed patients, Hayes was prescribed a CPAP machine––the most common treatment for sleep apnea. However, he found it difficult to adjust to and openly shared about the challenges he faced while using it.

When asked by co-host, Jason Bateman, if he had continued with CPAP treatment, Hayes responded, “No, I’m done, I can’t do it.” 

I tried it for a month. I could talk for an hour about all the issues I had.”

The Prevalence of CPAP Problems

Hayes’ experience is not uncommon. According to a 2023 study, which looked at adherence to CPAP therapy over time, by 12 months, the rate of participants still utilizing their CPAP machine was only 51.3%.

Early support can play a crucial role in CPAP success. Respiratory therapists and sleep technologists can provide guidance on mask fitting, comfort accessories, and troubleshooting common issues. For anyone not provided this type of personal support, Project Sleep’s Sleep Apnea Squad series offers free resources to help, including a YouTube discussion on “Making CPAP Comfortable,” which explores CPAP comfort products and cognitive behavior therapy approaches to improve CPAP adaptation.

Still Having CPAP Problems? More Treatment Options Available

CPAP is one of the most common treatment options available for obstructive sleep apnea, but it is not the only treatment option. Dr. Chris Allen, M.D., a board-certified sleep specialist who also uses CPAP himself, emphasizes the importance of exploring alternatives.

I always tell people that there’s more than one way to treat obstructive sleep apnea. It’s not just all CPAP. CPAP is great, but there are other ways to treat it.”

– Dr. Christopher Allen, M.D., Quality Sleep and Neurology

The Importance of Sleep Apnea Treatment

Ongoing treatment is critical, as untreated obstructive sleep apnea can have serious consequences. Geoff Eade, a sleep technologist in Jackson, Mississippi, tragically lost his father prematurely to untreated sleep apnea. Eade’s father was the same age as Hayes, serving as a stark reminder of the risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.

My dad was 54 years old and had been diagnosed with sleep apnea. He used his CPAP every night and took a nap one afternoon in his recliner without it and never woke up.”

-Geoff Eade, Registered Sleep Technologist

By openly discussing his challenges with CPAP, Hayes is shedding light on an issue that many face but few talk about. No one should have to struggle with sleep apnea treatment alone. There are resources, expert guidance, and community support available to help individuals find solutions that work for them.

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