Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

CPAP Therapy

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the gold standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). CPAP involves using a machine that delivers pressurized air through a mask to keep the airways open during sleep, thus preventing apnea events. This article provides an overview of CPAP, its components, benefits, and potential side effects.

Components of a CPAP Machine

A CPAP machine consists of the following components:

• An electric or battery-powered device with a pump that pressurizes room air to a set pressure, ranging from 4 cm of H2O to 20 cm of H2O. If the pressure is automatically determined by the machine using a built-in algorithm, it is called an Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (APAP) device.
• A mask or other device that fits over the nose or both the nose and mouth
• Straps to position the mask
• A tube connecting the mask to the machine's motor
• A motor that blows air into the tube

Indications for CPAP

CPAP is primarily used to treat sleep-related breathing disorders, including sleep apnea. It may also be prescribed for preterm infants with underdeveloped lungs.

Obtaining a CPAP Machine

If your doctor prescribes CPAP as the treatment for your sleep apnea, your insurance will work with a medical device company to provide you with a CPAP machine, along with disposable masks and tubes. Your doctor will set up your machine with the appropriate pressure settings. Regular check-ups with your doctor will help ensure that your CPAP device and its pressure settings are effectively reducing or eliminating apnea events during sleep.

Using a CPAP Machine

For effective treatment, it is crucial to use your CPAP machine every time you sleep, whether at home, while traveling, or during naps. Adjusting to using a CPAP machine may take time and patience. Your doctor may need to modify your pressure settings or help you find the most comfortable mask that works best for you. Some CPAP machines offer multiple or auto-adjusting pressure settings, which may improve comfort and compliance.

Benefits of CPAP Treatment

CPAP treatment offers both immediate and long-term benefits, including:

• Improved sleep quality
• Reduction or elimination of snoring
• Reduced daytime sleepiness
• Lowered risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and memory or cognitive function issues

Side Effects and Troubleshooting

CPAP treatment may cause side effects such as congestion, runny nose, dry mouth, or nosebleeds. Some masks can cause irritation, and stomach discomfort or bloating may occur. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor for assistance in relieving symptoms and adjusting to using your CPAP machine. Regular cleaning of your mask and tube, as well as timely replacement of these components, is essential for maintaining the effectiveness of your treatment.

Manufacturers of CPAP devices

Main article: Manufacturers of CPAP Devices

• Philips Respironics - popular
• Fisher and Paykel Healthcare - popular
• Resmed Inc - popular
• DeVilbiss
• Somnetics
• Aeiomed
• ProBasics
• Puritan Bennett
• CareFusion/Tiara Medical
• Invacare
• SleepNet
• RespCare
• Hans Rudolph
• Innomed
• Ventlab
• BREAS Medical
• 3B Medical
• Circadiance

Related

• Can APAP/BIPAP be an option for COVID-19 patients?

See Also

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea
• BiPAP
• Sleep Hygiene

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