What is a CPAP Machine?

One way to treat people who have sleep apnea is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure CPAP machine. All sleep apnea machines (CPAP machines) include a sleep apnea mask, tube and a fan. It uses air pressure (usually through your nose) to push your tongue forward and open your throat. This allows air to pass through your throat. It reduces snoring and prevents apnea episodes.

Mild Sleep Apnea can be treated by some behavioral changes. Losing weight and sleeping on your side are often recommended. There are oral mouth devices (that help keep the airway open) on the market that may help to reduce snoring in three different ways. Some devices (1) bring the jaw forward or (2) elevate the soft palate or (3) retain the tongue (from falling back in the airway and blocking breathing). Sleep Apnea is a progressive condition that gets worse as you age and should not be taken lightly.

For moderate and severe cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea a C-PAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is usually recommended after being diagnosed by a certified sleep center.

You should put your CPAP Machine on whenever you sleep and even for naps. A sleep apnea Machine does not cure sleep apnea. But, when you use the device correctly, your sleep apnea will no longer disturb your sleep patterns and you’ll be able to get the restorative sleep your body needs.

Some people see a difference after the first night, while others may take a few nights to notice a difference. But you WILL notice a difference. A CPAP machine may not save your life directly, but after a good night’s rest, you’ll be more alert during the day. Your heart and your spouse will thank you for taking care of this problem and you’ll be glad you did.

Do you need a CPAP Machine?

Talk to your doctor if you think you have sleep apnea. Your doctor may ask you to go to a sleep center for a sleep study. During your sleep study, you may try different levels of air pressure with a CPAP machine to see which level helps. In general, heavier people and people who have severe apnea need higher air pressures. If you need a CPAP machine, your doctor will help you choose one that is right for you.

How does a CPAP Machine work?

Nasal CPAP is delivered with a mask held against the nose with a head strap. A tube leading into the mask is connected to the actual CPAP Machine that blows air into the mask and maintains a fixed pressure. This pressure splints the collapsing airway, preventing obstruction.

Although a CPAP Machine isn’t sexy, the fact of the matter is, it works. Patients do sleep with the CPAP machine, and those who use it successfully stop snoring, sleep better, feel better and recognize marked improvement in their ability to function both at work and at home.

During the CPAP diagnosis, the nasal CPAP is fitted by spending one night trying different pressures to determine the best possible pressure. Once determined, a fixed pressure CPAP machine is delivered. Some people find the forced air is drying and uncomfortable. For these individuals, humidifiers inserted in line with the CPAP will humidify the CPAP air and reduce nasal and pharyngeal discomforts.