Cpap Machines: Taking A Breather

By Author: K. Leeds
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What is CPAP?


CPAP is an acronym for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. CPAP and CPAP machines are still the best possible approach for dealing with OSA, which CPAP.com defines as Obstructive Sleep Apnea. It’s a condition in which a person’s muscles and tissues in the throat relax too much while sleeping; the resulting blockage impedes airflow to the lungs. It literally takes your breath away. CPAP therapy enables people to breathe more easily while sleeping, and minimize the dangers brought on by OSA, by keeping the airway open.


Non-compliance with CPAP therapy:


OSA isn’t simply one’s tendency to snore. Studies and statistics have shown that untreated sleep apnea has the potential to be fatal and often results in serious health problems. A study conducted by University of Pennsylvania and published in 2003 found that approximately half of the studied patients who stopped complying with CPAP treatment established that pattern early in treatment (within the first week of therapy). The statistics for CPAP non-compliance have, as of yet, shown ...
... no sign of waning. CPAP therapy and CPAP machines can be uncomfortable at first, as a patient adjusts to needing to sleep with the mask on; however, like any other newly acquired medical device, you will get used to your CPAP machine. It becomes your trusted ally. Doctor Colin Sullivan (the man who invented CPAP in 1981) was recently asked what can be done about non-compliance to CPAP treatment, and responded that there is a preponderance of evidence that the best hope for compliance only occurs if the introduction of the potential patient to CPAP is done by well-trained experts, and if the patient is continually followed and supported by those experts.


Paving your road to recovery:


Once again, the best weapon you have is knowledge. CPAP therapy and CPAP machines require a change in habit which can be a bit off-putting at first. But, like most things, over time adjustments are made and it becomes routine. Your best tool is your ability to be well informed, and seek out the best possible expert in CPAP therapy. Additionally, make sure you have the support of your family and friends. It’s not easy dealing with any illness, let alone OSA, COPD, chronic pneumonia, Sarcoidosis, or any of the other myriad medical maladies that anyone can find themselves burdened with; don’t try to do it alone. If you need to utilize a CPAP machine, do your research and with your doctor’s help, find the best possible fit in a CPAP mask, and get informed. Reach out to your frienhuds and family. As humans, we have an inherent fear of the unknown; the best way to dispel that is to make it known.


K. Leeds is a freelance writer for The CPAP Shop, one of the leading providers of CPAP mask. Visit our website to learn more about their products or CPAP Machines at Thecpapshop.com.