C-PAP

CPAP is the abbreviated term for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. A CPAP machine is used for those who have obstructive sleep apnea. When a person has obstructive sleep apnea, they stop breathing during times of sleep. This is caused by a blockage in the airway from the soft tissue in the back of the throat. When a person falls asleep the tissue closes blocking the air from getting into the lungs. A CPAP machine is used to keep the airway open by increasing the air pressure in the throat, preventing the airway from being blocked from the soft tissue.

The CPAP machine can be used every night when a person goes to bed. There are a few different types of masks that can come with the CPAP machine. There is a mask that covers your nose and mouth, a mask that covers just the nose or you can have prongs that fit into the nose that provides constant air. The most common form of mask used is the mask that covers the nose only. This is referred to as the Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or the NCPAP.

Using a CPAP machine can take time to get used to. For the first few times of use, the mask may feel uncomfortable and hard to adjust to. If after a few days you are unable to sleep with the style mask that has been given to you, you may need to ask your doctor for a different fit or different style mask. For those that are able to get accustomed to the mask, sleeping may be dramatically improved. By having a constant oxygen supply you will be able to have less sleep disruptions. More people claim to have more energy during the day since they are sleeping better and longer at night. Other benefits from using a CPAP machine can include lowering your blood pressure, and for those who suffer from coronary artery disease using a CPAP machine can help prevent heart failure