CPAP Treatment

One of the most common types of therapy for obstructive sleep apnea is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). Simple in its concept, the CPAP device sends a gentle, steady stream of air through a tube into a mask which sits snuggly over your nose (or sometimes your nose and mouth) into the back of your throat. The purpose of this continuous pressure is to keep your airway open and prevent it from closing.

Masks for a PAP device can vary greatly in size, shape, material, comfort, and position on the face. Some have just tiny nose pillows that fit gently against the opening of the nostrils, some cover the entire nose, while some cover the entire nose and mouth. The type of mask varies from patient to patient and should be assessed and fitted by a qualified respiratory therapist or sleep physician. It is not only about finding a mask that is comfortable, the therapist will need to consider the amount of “mouth breathing” you do and your facial anatomy when being fitted for a mask.

Any modern PAP device can be fitted with a “heated humidifier” to add some warm moisture to the air flow. The humidifier helps increase the comfort level and reduce throat irritation, dry mouth, and soreness.

Without proper guidance and encouragement, patients can easily become overwhelmed, even frustrated, ultimately resulting in not using the CPAP therapy. Therefore it is very important that you work closely with your Respiratory Therapist or CPAP Counselor. Various published studies have indicated that the first month of CPAP usage is crucial to success, and that in turn is the key to maintaining good health and preventing the onset of more serious consequences.

Click here for PAP Frequently Asked Questions