CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. It keeps your airway
open as you sleep by providing you with a steady stream of air. Most CPAP units
are about the size of a small tissue box. Today’s units are smaller, lighter and
quieter than when they were first used to treat sleep apnea. Some units are as
small as six or seven inches in length and weigh only two or three pounds.
To power the unit, you simply plug it into the wall. The box has a fan that
pushes air through a tube. The tube is connected to a mask that you wear as you
sleep. The mask allows the air to gently blow into the back of your throat. This
keeps the airway open and prevents pauses in breathing as you sleep.
The amount of air pressure needed is different for each person. A CPAP study during an
overnight sleep
study will show your sleep doctor the level that is right for you.
CPAP units come with a variety of features. Most units now have a pressure
“ramp” setting. This timed setting starts the machine at a very low level of air
pressure. It slowly raises the pressure until it reaches the right level.
Humidifiers are a common accessory for CPAP units. They provide cool or
heated moisture to the air coming from the CPAP unit. This can reduce side
effects and make it easier for you to breathe through your mask. Some CPAP units
now come with an “integrated” humidifier that is connected to the machine.
There are three kinds of mask systems that you can use with CPAP:
- Nasal mask
This mask only covers your nose and is the most common
CPAP mask.
- Full face mask
This mask covers both your nose and your mouth.
This type of mask may help if you have air leaks when using a nasal mask.
- Nasal pillows
This system uses soft silicone tubes that fit
directly into your nostrils. It can also help eliminate air leaks and may
provide you with a greater sense of freedom.
No matter what type of mask you use, it is most important that it fits you
well. First your doctor will work with you to select the right size for your
mask. The mask should fit snugly enough to prevent leaks without causing
discomfort. You may need to make small adjustments to the mask, tubing, straps
and headgear until you get the right fit.
