Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects an estimated 22 million Americans. If you have it, your breathing may be interrupted several times during sleep. While doctors are still studying sleep apnea, a common treatment for it is CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure). In this article, you’ll learn all about how CPAP works.
How CPAP Works
CPAP is a device that supplies air and provides constant positive pressure to your airways. This positive pressure then keeps your airways free. Without obstruction in your airways, you can inhale and exhale more easily while sleeping.
Here are the different parts of a CPAP and their functions:
- Air blower: supplies the humidified air to free your airways
- Tube: transports air from the machine to your airways
- Mask: ensures the flow of air to your airways
There are different types and sizes of masks. For some, nasal CPAP may be sufficient as it fits snugly over the nose. Others may prefer nasopharyngeal masks to prevent nasal septum necrosis. On the other hand, those who breathe through their mouths may benefit from face masks covering both the mouth and nose.
There are also other types of sleep apnea machines: automatic positive airway pressure (APA) machines and bi-level positive airway pressure (BPAP) machines. APAP adjusts according to the needed pressure per breath. On the other hand, BPAP supplies two different pressures, one during expiration and one during inspiration.
Since there are many configurations of CPAP and other breath-assisting machines, you should first consult your doctor. It also helps to consider some tips for choosing the best medical equipment before choosing a CPAP provider.
Benefits Of CPAP
Since CPAP clears your airways, it can help prevent obstructive sleep apnea. With uninterrupted breathing during sleep, you can then have better sleep quality.
Some studies have also found that continuous use of CPAP led to long-term health benefits like reducing blood pressure. Additionally, patients with continued CPAP use had reduced risks of stroke and heart attack. Blood sugar levels were also significantly lower, thus helping patients with both diabetes and sleep apnea.
To achieve these long-term benefits, use your CPAP machine while sleeping at night or napping in the daytime.
Additionally, only use the appropriate optimal pressure to gain these benefits from CPAP machines. Doctors and lab technicians will monitor you in a hospital sleep lab to determine the optimal pressure for your CPAP machine. That way, you can use your CPAP machine at home without worries.
Aside from treating sleep apnea, CPAP machines are also useful for supplying air to preterm infants with underdeveloped lungs. It also benefits infants with respiratory distress syndrome due to a surfactant deficiency, and infections like pneumonia and bronchiolitis. CPAP can also play a vital role in patients with:
- Tracheomalacia
- Hypoxia
- Congestive heart failure
Possible Side Effects Of CPAP
The benefits of CPAP far outweigh the risks of using it. However, for first-time users, CPAP machines can be uncomfortable and even embarrassing. Other side effects of CPAP use may include:
- Congested or stuffy nose
- Dry mouth
- Dry eyes
- Nosebleeds
- Runny nose
- Skin sores
These side effects typically develop because of ill-fitting masks, so it’s critical to find the right size and type for your face. Some people can prevent nosebleeds and nasal irritation by using nasopharyngeal masks. On the other hand, those with dry mouths may benefit from face masks. It helps to consult your doctor to determine the best mask for you.
Other additional equipment can also relieve these side effects. Those who experience dry mouth and stuffy noses can add humidifiers to their CPAP machines.
Consult your doctor for the proper mask type and size. They can also advise you on additional accessories to make your CPAP treatment more comfortable.
CPAP In Southwest Texas
CPAP machines treat sleep apnea by keeping your airways free and unobstructed during sleep. Using a CPAP machine may result in improved sleep quality, decreased daytime sleepiness, and reduced blood pressure and sugar. Because of its mechanism, CPAP machines are also beneficial for patients with other types of respiratory obstructions.
If you’re looking for a CPAP machine, visit the experts at Reliance Medical. For over 30 years, we’ve been supplying medical equipment, from wheelchairs and walkers to CPAP machines and monitors.
You can buy CPAP machines from any of our locations in Abilene, Alpine, Monahans, and Presidio, TX. You can also request more information on our CPAP machines by using our online form or by calling us at (877) 588-7422. For your convenience, we offer free shipping for purchases above $99. We accept Medicare and most major insurance plans.
Let us help you get a good night’s sleep!
