Sleep Apnea And Cpap Machines: An Overview

By Author: Robin Hewitt
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For those diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), CPAP is the most common and effective solution currently available. If your doctor has prescribed a CPAP machine for your nightly use, you may be confused about what it is and how it works as well as how you should use the CPAP machine for optimum results.

A CPAP machine is a small bedside unit that delivers pressurized air through a tube to a mask that is worn over the nose or face. Because the air is a steady stream delivered directly to the nasal passages, it prevents apnea events from occurring and allows the user to sleep continuously without breaks in breathing patterns.

The most important factor in successful use of a CPAP machine is that the machine be used consistently throughout the night. Your respiratory therapist will adjust the pressure setting and face mask to make it comfortable for you to use. If you aren’t using the machine regularly because it is uncomfortable, ask your doctor about other CPAP machines and masks that are less invasive. There are a wide variety of masks available that can be adapted for your ...
... particular needs.

CPAP machines don’t work properly unless they are maintained on a regular basis. Make sure your doctor or respiratory therapist clearly explains to you what parts of the machine and mask need to be cleaned or replaced and how often each maintenance step should be done. Ideally, you should receive a checklist that explains what needs to be done on a monthly basis to keep your CPAP machine in proper working order.

To summarize, CPAP machine are the most common and successful treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. Although the patient may find using a CPAP machine to be less than optimal at first, the machine can be adjusted by a professional to obtain maximum patient comfort. There are also a wide variety of masks styles available. If you find that your CPAP machine is still difficult to use, you should inquire about a different type of mask that will fit your lifestyle and sleeping habits. CPAP machines must be maintained on a regular basis in order for the machine to provide optimal results.

Robin Hewitt is a freelance writer working with The CPAP Shop to inform people about continuous positive airway pressure therapy. For more information about CPAP machine and CPAP mask, visit our site today!